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How to Do a Purpose-Driven Job Search: A Guide to Finding Meaningful Work


Fuzzy sign saying How to do a purpose driven job search surrounded by a border of evergreen trees

 

In a world where many people spend a significant part of their lives at work, it's natural to want that work to be meaningful. This has become even more evident since the pandemic. The Deloitte 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey found that 86% of Gen Z and 89% of millennials think a sense of purpose is very or somewhat important to their overall job satisfaction with nearly half having rejected work based on their personal beliefs.

A purpose-driven job search is about finding roles that not only align with your skills but also with your values, contributing to a sense of fulfillment beyond the paycheck. For many of us, it is important that we do work that matters.  Whether you’re just starting out or contemplating a career change, here’s a guide to conducting a purpose-driven job search that helps you land a job that feels rewarding and impactful.

 

 1. Define Your Purpose

The first step to a purpose-driven job search is defining what purpose means to you. Take some time to reflect on the following:

 

- What are your core values? Think about what matters most to you, such as sustainability, social justice, education, innovation, or community. You can do a quick value card sort exercise to uncover what matters most to you. Think 2 Perform has one that is free and easy.

 

- What are you excited about? Reflect on the activities and causes that energize you. Is it supporting underserved communities, advocating for environmental conservation, or working in the arts? Understanding what gives you energy will help guide you toward industries and organizations that align with your interests.

 

- What impact do you want to have? Consider the difference you want to make in the world through your work. Whether it is improving people’s lives, helping businesses grow, or fostering creativity, having a clear vision of your desired impact will inform your job search.

 

 2. Identify Your Strengths and Skills

 

Once you understand your purpose, identify the strengths and skills that will help you contribute meaningfully in a professional setting. A purpose-driven job doesn’t just require passion—it also requires capabilities that allow you to make a real impact. Consider the following:

 

- What are your greatest strengths? List your top skills and talents. These could include technical skills, communication abilities, creative thinking, leadership, or project management.

 

- How do your strengths align with your purpose? Identify how your unique skills can contribute to your purpose. For example, if you’re passionate about education and have strong communication skills, perhaps working for an educational technology company could be a good fit.

 

 3. Research Purpose-Driven Companies and Organizations

 

When looking for a purpose-driven role, it’s essential to find organizations that align with your values and mission. Research companies thoroughly to assess whether their culture, goals, and work align with your vision of meaningful work:

 

- Look for mission statements and values. Start by checking the company’s website. Many purpose-driven organizations clearly outline their mission and values. See if they resonate with your own.

 

- Check for social impact initiatives. Companies that prioritize social impact often highlight their community projects, sustainability initiatives, or other programs that contribute to society. Look for evidence that they are walking the talk.

 

- Explore employee reviews and culture. Websites like Glassdoor can provide insight into whether a company truly supports a positive, values-driven culture. Employees’ feedback can help you assess if the organization follows through on its promises.

- Working for a government agency can provide a strong sense of purpose, as many roles are focused on serving the public and contributing to the greater good. Agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Department of Education are directly involved in promoting health, environmental sustainability, public safety, and access to quality education. Government positions often allow employees to impact policy, community welfare, and long-term societal progress, making them ideal for individuals who want to create meaningful change at a broad scale.


Here are six places to look for job postings related to purpose-driven work:


   - 80,000 Hours provides career advice and job listings for those who want to make a significant positive impact in the world. It focuses on high-impact opportunities in areas such as global health, climate change, and policy, making it ideal for individuals seeking meaningful careers.

 

   - B Work specializes in job postings from Certified B Corporations, businesses committed to social and environmental performance. It's a great platform for finding roles with companies that prioritize purpose alongside profit.

 

   - Idealist is one of the leading platforms for nonprofit, social impact, and purpose-driven jobs. You can find opportunities at NGOs, charities, and other mission-driven organizations looking for individuals who are passionate about making a difference.

 

   - Net Impact offers a job board focused on sustainability, corporate responsibility, and social impact. It also features internships and fellowships, making it ideal for individuals at various career stages who want to make a positive impact.

 

   - Escape the City focuses on helping people leave traditional corporate jobs for more fulfilling, impactful careers. It features job listings from startups, nonprofits, and organizations that prioritize social good and personal growth.

 

   - LinkedIn can be a resource for finding purpose-driven roles if you use targeted keywords like "sustainability," "social impact," "nonprofit," or "mission-driven." Many purpose-driven companies actively recruit through LinkedIn, and you can also follow organizations you're interested in to see their job postings.


 4. Network with Like-Minded Professionals

 

Networking can help you gain insights and connections that are invaluable during a purpose-driven job search. Engaging with people who share your values can open doors to opportunities that align with your goals:

 

- Join relevant groups and forums. Find professional groups—both online and in-person—that focus on your areas of interest. For instance, if sustainability is your passion, join environmental advocacy groups and attend their events.

 

- Connect with employees of target organizations. Reach out to people who work at the companies or organizations you’re interested in. Ask them about the culture, their experience, and the work the company does.

 

- Engage on social media. Use platforms like LinkedIn to share your ideas, passions, and expertise. Engage with thought leaders in your field by commenting on their posts or sharing your own content. This can help you become visible to organizations that align with your purpose.

 

 5. Customize Your Application Materials

 

When applying for purpose-driven roles, it’s important to make sure your resume and cover letter reflect your alignment with the company’s mission:

 

- Align your resume with the role. Highlight experiences and skills that demonstrate your ability to contribute to the company’s mission. For example, if you’re applying to a nonprofit organization, showcase any volunteer work or projects that relate to their cause.

 

- Write a compelling cover letter. Use your cover letter to tell your story—explain why the organization’s mission resonates with you and how your skills, experiences, and values align with their purpose. Employers looking for purpose-driven employees are interested in individuals who are genuinely passionate about their cause.

 

 6. Prepare for Purpose-Oriented Interviews

 

When interviewing for a purpose-driven role, be prepared to communicate why the organization’s mission matters to you and how you can contribute:

 

- Connect your purpose to the company’s mission. Be ready to share specific examples of how your values align with the company’s purpose. Employers want to see that you are not only skilled but also motivated by the work they do.

 

- Ask thoughtful questions. Show that you’re genuinely interested in the company’s mission by asking questions related to their social impact initiatives, culture, or challenges. For example, you could ask, "How does the company ensure its initiatives make a meaningful impact?" or "What does success look like for your team in terms of contributing to the company's mission?"

 

 7. Assess Job Offers Beyond Salary

 

A purpose-driven job search isn’t just about finding a position that pays well. It’s also about considering other aspects that align with your definition of purpose:

 

- Culture and values alignment. Make sure the company’s culture is supportive of your values. If environmental sustainability is important to you, ask about their policies on reducing carbon footprints or waste.

 

- Opportunity for impact. Assess whether the role allows you to create the impact you desire. Will you be involved in meaningful projects, or is the role primarily about profit-driven tasks?

 

- Growth and fulfillment. Consider whether the job offers opportunities for personal growth, learning, and fulfillment. Will you be able to develop skills and grow in ways that align with your purpose?

 

 Finding Meaningful Work Can be Worth the Effort

 

A purpose-driven job search takes some focus and introspection. It requires understanding your values, identifying companies that align with those values, and being intentional with your applications. By following these steps, you can find a role that not only matches your skills and experience but also gives you a deeper sense of fulfillment and allows you to make a positive impact on the world.

 

When you find that sweet spot where your skills, passions, and a company’s mission align, you’re likely to experience greater job satisfaction and motivation. Remember, meaningful work doesn’t just benefit you—it also benefits the people, communities, and causes you touch through your efforts.

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