Stepping out of the typical job sector is a major decision. Many of those looking for nonprofit jobs come from for-profit business backgrounds, and are simply tired of working for something they don’t believe in. Some are entirely new to the workforce, bright-eyed and read to look for jobs that don’t simply come with salaries, but with missions as well. Others still simply need a job with a change of pace — and a nonprofit job can give just that. Unfortunately, there’s still a lot of misinformation about the nonprofit jobs out there; or simply a lack of information, in the cases of those who wish to pursue a nonprofit job but don’t know how to get it. As such, we’ve compiled a list of things you may want to know before starting your nonprofit job hunt. After all, nobody can deny that these jobs are unlike any others!

1. Yes, You Can Live On Nonprofit Salaries

When you tell your friends or relatives that you want to want to work for a nonprofit organization, they might respond with concerns about your salary. But the fact is that nonprofit jobs are not volunteer organizations. You’re working a real job here, and you’ll get paid just as you would at any other business. It’s true that the point of a nonprofit is not to make a profit — but whether you’re doing temp work or are on staff as a permanent employee, you can live n your wages. In fact, in 2010 alone nonprofits accounted for 9.2% of all wages paid in the United States.

2. You Can Get Help Finding A Nonprofit Job

Due to the nature of the field, nonprofits often reach out through staffing companies and agencies as well as nonprofit recruiters to find employees. You don’t have to simply look online or through newspapers to find your job. Give your name to a staffing agency or recruiter, and you can expect results soon enough. Don’t forget, however, that 94% of recruiters use social media to find new hires. It’s no wonder why — employers that use social media to hire find a 49% improvement in new hires over those who don’t.

3. There Are Ways Of Getting Your Foot In The Door

The thing about getting work at a nonprofit is that your personality and work ethic count for a lot. Many nonprofits want to see how a person works on a temp level before hiring them on a permanent basis. As such, if you get work through a temp agency, you can be tested out as a potential permanent candidate. Even if you end up spending a few weeks or months away from the company, you’ll have a better chance of getting the permanent job that you apply for.

There are plenty of ways through which you can get a job at a nonprofit. You just have to be open to different options!