Careers in Fundraising offers a complete overview on how to begin a career in development, in addition to giving advice on how to get ahead if you are already in the field. This book has useful insights for professionals at all stages of their careers —— those who are just entering the job market, are making a transition from another field, or who are looking to get ahead in their chosen profession. This book also explains the role of fundraising, and of the fundraising professional in the historical context of philanthropy.

Lilya Wagner brings a wealth of experience from a variety of roles in the nonprofit field to her discussion of fundraising career opportunities. In addition, at the end of each chapter she includes anecdotes and quotes from other professionals to round out the reader's perspective. The body of the book reads very quickly, and Wagner supplements each chapter with a number of annotated references to guide the reader to more in-depth resources.

Careers in Fundraising takes the reader, step-by-step, down the various paths a fundraising professional may choose and illustrates some of the obstacles he or she may encounter on the way. Working under six major sections, Wagner then breaks each section down even further, so that the reader can skip to the chapter that has the greatest personal relevance. Topics range from "Understanding the Nonprofit Sector and the Working Environment" to "Preparing for a Career in Fundraising" to "Maintaining Excellence and Equilibrium." There are insights that are useful for all levels of professionals, including advice on how to find the right job, and how to handle challenges if you find your job is not the perfect fit.

Careers in Fundraising fills a niche in the literature of fundraising. It acknowledges and addresses the fact that more and more people are entering the field purposefully, and with specific career goals in mind. Careers in Fundraising would be of great use to anyone who wants to gain a solid understanding of fundraising work, its role in the broader context of an organization, and the role of the fundraising professional.

 For citations to additional materials on this topic, refer to Literature of the Nonprofit Sector Online, using the subject heading "Fundraising-employment."