Management Analyst Career

In an effort to turn a higher profit and run in a more resourceful manner, it’s no wonder that businesses, companies and organizations are constantly looking for ways to reduce costs and increase revenue. Management analysts (or management consultants) are trained to zero in on the most effective ways to gather and analyze data, improve productivity, and make the appropriate changes that bring results. A faith-based professional may permanently join the management team of a Christian business or seek other opportunities to improve the efficiency of companies that share the same religious beliefs.   

Job Activities & Responsibilities

Management analysts are hired to work for organizations and companies within an office setting, but may also visit a client’s site as a self-employed consultant. Because of this, travel is often a frequent activity for this career choice. Overall, an analyst’s work varies according to project and client/employer needs. One moment they’re working with a team of consultants, while the next is an independent adventure. A management analyst may specialize in a specific area (such as healthcare, telecommunications, or the government) which affects their day-to-day activities and responsibilities. The occupation generally involves the following duties:

  • Compiling and organizing information related to a specific problem or procedure
  • Assessing the equipment, business methods, and staff actions of a business or client
  • Reviewing the revenue, employment records, bills, and other financial data of clients
  • Developing the best course of active for achieving goals of productivity
  • Drafting written reports and presentations for management
  • Recommending new procedures, systems, and organizational changes

Education

Having at least a bachelor’s degree is a requirement for most management analysts to qualify for entry-level positions. Since a concentrated program in management analysis and consulting is rare at colleges and universities, it is not uncommon for a student to pursue a degree in business, economics, finance, marketing, or computer/information science. Those who wish to incorporate their religious beliefs and faith into their career often take electives and other courses related to theology, divinity and Christian studies. To advance in the field, having a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) is preferred by many employers.

Career Salary & Job Outlook

Hired to work in finance, government, and companies that provide an array of technical and professional services, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported in 2017 that management analysts earned a median yearly salary of $82,450, with some of the highest-paid professionals in the field earning over $152,000. Competition for analyst positions is fierce, as the high-earning potential is an attractive lure for jobseekers. Applicants who have a graduate degree; completed a certification process; possess a specialty; or are fluent in a foreign language, are usually viewed as a more desirable hire for employers.

Moving at a faster pace than the average of all other occupations in the United States, the employment of management analysts is expected to grow 14% from 2016 to 2026 – with 115,200 more job opportunities emerging during this time period. Companies and businesses are increasingly recognizing the advantage of using resources more efficiently, which means the expertise of a consultant, becomes more valuable. Industries anticipated to greatly escalate the number of new analyst positions within the next ten years include healthcare, cybersecurity, and information technology.

 

Becoming a Fundraiser 

From Christian charity drives to promoting a political candidate running on a family values platform, it’s the job of a fundraiser to organize and oversee an event or campaign that raises money and other kinds of donations. As one of the leading industries to hire fundraisers, many religious organizations rely heavily on the kindness of strangers and repeat donors. Completing a college degree program is an important step taken to sharpen the communication and organizational skills needed to persuade people to donate their time, money and energy.

Job Activities & Responsibilities

Hired to work directly for an organization or individual, most fundraisers become a part of a team or staff, while others establish consulting firms that handle a roster of clients. Communication skills are essential for thriving in this field, as a great deal of time is spent contacting potential donors, whether it’s in person, on the telephone, or through email. Fundraisers also have to touch base and stay on the same page as other employees. Required travel, working evenings and weekends, as well as putting in overtime hours, are oftentimes part of a fundraiser’s job description.

Other day-to-day activities include the following responsibilities:

  • Increasing awareness of the accomplishments, goals and financial needs of a client or employer
  • Organizing events to promote a client, from galas to charity runs
  • Designing and distributing promotional materials that send a clear, strong message
  • Attending fundraising events, as well as overseeing employees, staff and volunteers
  • Researching, identifying and contacting potential donors
  • Maintaining records of donor information

Education

Fundraisers may come from a range of academic backgrounds, but employers tend to give preference to graduates with a bachelor’s degree program in journalism, communications, English, public relations, political science, or business. A background or degree in theology or divinity equips a graduate with the knowledge and awareness of how to create better fundraising strategies for religious organizations, faith-based political candidates, and Christian non-profits. To qualify for a management position, employers often require a job applicant to hold a master’s degree, as well as have years of experience working as a fundraiser.

Career Salary & Job Outlook

Religious organizations are one of the largest employers of fundraisers, paying a median annual salary of $54,880 in 2017 for the position. In addition to religious organizations, faith-based fundraisers may find employment with schools, research foundations, social services agencies, and political figures. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the highest 10% of professionals to enter the field have earned more than $94,280, especially in top-paying states like Rhode Island, California, New York, and Maryland. Other factors that play a role in how much a fundraiser makes include having years of experience, grant-writing abilities, social media savviness, and demonstrating an impressive track record in regards to past fundraising events.

The job outlook for fundraisers is strong, as employment for the occupation is expected to grow 15% from 2016 to 2026. This rate is much faster than the average of all other positions in the United States. There will be a continued need for nonprofit and other organizations to collect donations so that their operations can stay afloat. Within the 10-year time frame, an estimated 13,400 new positions are expected to become available for fundraisers.

Director of Religious Education

Playing an integral role in the management of a parish or Christian school, religious program directors of education work closely with church leaders and members to develop and put into action a curriculum that stays in line with a particular belief system. Having a hand in meeting the teaching-, staffing-, budget- and administrative needs of a religious education program, directors are expected to have a college degree and demonstrate relevant experience in the field.

Job Activities & Responsibilities

A director of religious education works closely with church leaders in the crafting and application of a curriculum and activities within a parish or Christian school. Because of this, communication skills are essential since a director comes in regular contact with church members, educators, volunteers, parents, and children that attend a congregation or parish school. Some directors travel to conferences and workshops as part of the job description, while others specialize in a concentrated field, such as children’s ministry or women’s studies. A director generally assumes the following responsibilities while in their position:

  • Hire, recruit, and train teachers, staff and other personnel
  • Approve various programs; create, update and oversee curricula
  • Fulfill budget tasks for religious education programs and activities
  • Collaborate with a board of directors to ensure school goals are met

Education

The educational requirements for religious directors vary according to the employer; many directors are expected to hold at least a bachelor’s degree or higher. Several years of related experience is also preferred for most job applicants. Many parishes seek prospective directors with a background in or have completed relevant coursework related to human resources, personal service, counseling, and project administration. It is not uncommon for a parish to hire a religious education director with a degree in Theology or dual-degree involving Theology and Education. Having a background in Christian education is also a plus for this career path.

Step by Step: How to Become a Religious Education Director

1. Earn a college degree. Prospective religious education directors must hold at least an undergraduate degree, preferably one in religious studies, education, or another relevant field. Students often encounter a curriculum that includes courses centered on scripture; systematic theology; sacraments; church history, and Christian life studies. Some students may pursue a specialty while in school, and take the appropriate classes to prepare for a specific position in the field. For example, someone with an interest in planning, leading and directing the programs for children and youth at a parish, often takes courses and gains experience in children religious education, children’s studies, child psychology, and youth counseling.

2. Become a certified or licensed professional, when applicable. Depending on the employer, prospective education directors are expected to obtain a teaching license or certification before qualifying for a position. This may include (but is not limited to) completing specific coursework; enrolling in additional programs; passing the proper exams; and fulfilling the requirements of a state-approved licensure process.

3. Gain the appropriate experience. Parish experience, in combination with other field experience, is often an expectation of religious directors. Those with a religious education background in college often complete teacher preparation programs, as well as gain experience through an internship or student-teaching assignments. Employers prefer to hire candidates for a director position who have spent several years as a teacher in an academic or religious setting.

4. Meet required qualifications of a parish or school. Individual schools and religious organizations will have their own set of standards that prospective directors must meet. For many, job candidates are expected to practice and show commitment to their respective faith. Some churches are also looking for directors with special skills and experience, such as music, art, or being fluent in a foreign language.

Career Salary, Outlook & Growth

Directors of religious education are typically hired to work for a specific church, organization or program. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary of a religious activities and education director in May 2017 was $38,980, with the top 90% of directors earning $82,570 or more annually.

Factors, such as the size of a school or parish, play a role in how much a religious education director may earn. Smaller schools typically pay $35,000 to $45,000 per year, while larger learning institutions offer annual salaries up to $200,000. Geographic location is another significant influence on salary figures for this career. States demonstrating the highest-paying job opportunities in the United States include North Carolina ($87,860), Alabama ($83,470), District of Columbia ($73,470), Kentucky ($71,420), and Colorado ($63,520).

In relation to all other employment opportunities in the U.S., the religious education director position shows average projected growth of 5% to 9%. An estimated 19,400 job openings are anticipated to become available from 2016 to 2026. The majority of new hires will come from religious organizations, an industry that is responsible for the highest levels of employment regarding this career field. The BLS also identified the state of New York as employing the most religious directors in the nation.

Lobbyist Career

A persuasive tongue and quick wit are beneficial tools to have for the lobbyist, whose presence is a common fixture on Capitol Hill. Their primary objective is to sway legislators into making the kinds of decisions that can positively affect special interest groups, causes and their clients. The job involves a lot of research and analysis of current and past legislation. In the case of faith-based lobbyists, they often play a significant role in assisting religious organizations influence legislation related to controversial topics, such as abortion rights and same-sex marriage.

It’s the job of a lobbyist to use their knowledge and presentation skills to influence public officials to act in favor of or against a specific cause, issue or political agenda. Usually employed by interest groups, from church organizations to the National Rifle Association, their goal is to elevate the public policies that benefit their clients or company agenda. Lobbyists also become experts in a specific field, cause, or area of public policy. They will sit in on congressional hearings, and then follow up with specific political forces, educating government officials and relevant parties on important issues.

Other common activities and duties of a lobbyist generally include:

• Establishing relationships with legislators in an effect to influence political decisions
• Creating awareness for client interests, both inside and outside of the political arena
• Monitoring legislative activity on behalf of an employer or clients
• Meeting with members of Congress in regards to a proposed bill
• Discussing federal funding efforts with government agencies
• Writing letters of support to lawmakers

Those who enter the career field must register as a lobbyist and maintain an upstanding status with the government. This included filing quarterly reports that list current contacts and highlight lobbying activities.

Education

Lobbyists possessing at least a bachelor’s degree (preferably in political science, law, communications, public relations, economics and journalism) tend to fair better in the field than someone without any educational credentials. Individuals with a background or completed coursework in religious studies or theology (especially classes that cover political-centered subject matter) add a unique and authoritative voice to discussions. An advanced degree is preferred by most employers. A faith-based professional may also increase job opportunities when obtaining a certificate from the Association of Government Relations Professionals.

Career Salary & Job Outlook

Lobbyists fall under the general umbrella of public relations specialist positions, which according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), was paid a median annual salary of $59,300 in 2017. Depending on years of experience, reputation in political circles, and a proven track record, employees have the potential to earn more $112,260 a year.

Lobbyists find employment with many different types of organizations, businesses and special interest groups, with religious-affiliated entities making up an influential portion of employers looking for support in legislation and public policy that coincides with their beliefs. For example, the second-largest, religious-affiliated group is the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, which serves as a part of the Vatican’s outreach in America. This organization spends over a quarter-million in advocacy, and often uses lobbyists as their representation.

Job candidates, who have completed the lobbying certificate program from the Association of Government Relations Professionals (AGRP), demonstrate to potential employers that they truly understand the process. Having years of experience as a lobbyist with certain political groups is also viewed as an asset when seeking employment.

The job outlook for this occupation stays in line with the average for all other occupations in the U.S., with a 9% growth rate expected to take place from 2016 to 2016. Organizations will continue to need representation in politics, and to have someone speak on their behalf – pushing for the legislative agendas that affect them the most. Overall, the public relations field expects 22,900 new job openings to become available during this time period, which includes opportunities for faith-based lobbyists to thrive.

Diplomatic Career

Many worker bees are behind the official negotiations and maintenance of the United States’ social, political and economic relations with other countries around the world. The national government appoints individuals to act on behalf of the nation. Diplomats, also called Foreign Service Officers (FSO) in some cases, oftentimes use their educational background and work experience to represent the policies and interests of the United States. The field is wide-ranging and can touch upon many causes, such as the environment, the economy, and religious freedom.

Job Activities & Responsibilities

Individuals with an interest in serving the country in a diplomatic manner may pursue a range of jobs associated with the field. Because of the wide-ranging opportunities to serve as a diplomat, the roles and responsibilities for this career field vary greatly, which ranges from serving as a minister to acting as an ambassador or envoy. There are five different paths that a diplomat may concentrate in: consular officer, economic officer, management officer, political officer, and public diplomacy officer.

A public diplomacy officer works with foreign countries on an in-person and online front. Consular officers are in the business of assisting and protecting American citizens when they are abroad. Economic officers may work with foreign interests to negotiate new trade laws or protect the environment. Embassies hire management officers to handle the affairs of their employees, while political officers concentrate on keeping U.S. ambassadors up to speed on political events.

Depending on the type of officer a diplomat is, the following could be part of a job description:

  • Attend state functions, such as dinners
  • Arrange visa for travelers to the U.S.
  • Oversee solutions in times of war and peace
  • Travel and spend a great deal of time overseas
  • Negotiate a treaty or international agreement
  • Help shape foreign policy

Education

Having a college degree is not a strict requirement to enter the field of diplomacy; however, completing at least a bachelor’s degree-level education increases the chances of being hired. Being able to speak a foreign language is also viewed as an asset. College degree majors that provide a solid foundation for a career in diplomacy include political science, economics, and business. Completing coursework in foreign policy, intercultural issues, journalism, and communication also comes in handy.

Job applicants with a graduate degree often possess the kind of skills and knowledge that typically lead to advancement within the industry. A master’s degree in international relations provides a valuable background for the field. In anticipation of future placement in areas greatly affected by religion, faith-driven students may take courses in theology, divinity, and world religions as preparation.

Career Salary & Job Outlook

Diplomats travel to and are placed at more than 270 embassies, consulates and other diplomatic locations in the world to create a U.S. presence overseas. Salaries and pay are wide-ranging and oftentimes follow a specific government-regulated pay scale. The General Schedule (GS) pay scale is used for domestic service professionals, while the Foreign Schedule (FS) scale is associated with individuals providing overseas service. With nine pay grades and 14 steps in each grade, there is plenty of room for career advancement.

Diplomats are generally paid according to their ranking. The highest-ranking diplomats can earn yearly salaries between $99,628 and $179,700. Those who assume an entry-level position; hold a bachelor’s degree; and do not have relevant experience can expect to earn a yearly base pay of around $43,000.

Other factors come into play in regards to salary, such as the safety risks that a diplomat takes. Employees assigned to regions deemed dangerous, including Afghanistan, Cuba and Syria, may earn hardship pay of up to an additional 35% when they travel to areas plagued by constant acts of violence, kidnapping risks, bombings, and rebel uprisings.

As the U.S. continues to develop and strengthen intercultural relationships around the world, the call for more diplomats to facilitate communication, solutions and dialogue will also grow. Those with specialized skills; who have established relationships with high-ranking global leaders; and have many years of experience under his or her belt are especially in high demand.

 

Art Consultant Career

The art that decorates the hallways of a church or represents unique acquisitions of a private religious art collector may have involved the expertise of an art consultant, who has a good eye for selecting the appropriate art to occupy specific spaces. Every client or project presents a new challenge, as art consultants are tasked with locating pieces that complement a variety of buyers, locations, businesses and environments. As an art consultant, especially one specializing in religious art, having collegiate credentials is generally a must in order to succeed in the field.

Job Activities & Responsibilities

An art consultant selects and purchases artworks on behalf of clients that may include paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other fine art pieces. Hired by corporations, small businesses, hotels, private parties and large organizations, there are plenty of opportunities to find employment that incorporates faith-based art. Some clients rely on a consultant to suggest art for satisfying home or business décor needs, while others seek artworks to gift or add to a collection.

Art consultants often follow flexible schedules, and adjust their workday to meet the needs of clients. It is not uncommon for duties to extend into evening and weekend hours. To research, scout out and acquire certain artworks, some consultants are required to travel to art shows and auctions. An art consultant also spends time developing relationships with galleries (both nationally and internationally), artists, and other sources for art collection and retail.

Art consultants are also expected to perform the following as part of his or her job:

  • Understand the design needs or desires of a client or business
  • Meeting with clients, and assessing the space(s) requiring artwork
  • Install or arrange artwork for clients
  • Keep up with the latest art trends, as well as new and emerging artists
  • Make recommendations based on personal and/or decorative needs

Education

The majority of art consultants hold at least a bachelor’s degree in an art-related field, such as fine arts, design, or art history. Students may also take classes in classical studies, philosophy, humanities, photography, graphic design, and art theory to gain a well-rounded perspective. Courses in theology, divinity, religious studies and in some cases, religious art, helps students build a background that makes it easier to integrate their faith into a career in art consultation.

Many graduates go on to pursue a master’s degree related to a specific field of art, to become an expert or specialist with a better understanding on how to deal with a specific genre of artworks.

Career Salary & Job Outlook

The arts consultant position is one that is often grouped with interior designers, which according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) earned a median annual salary of $51,500 in 2017. The highest 10% of these design professionals earned more than $93,780. In general, the BLS cites the salary for all arts and design occupations as $45,250.

The salary that an art consultant earns can greatly vary, and is dependent on a range of factors that include a professional’s level of expertise, the budget of clients, geographic location, art trends, and their connections within the art world. For example, an art consultant living in Los Angeles or New York City generally encounters a higher number of wealthier clients willing to pay more for their services than if they lived in a less populated area. A consultant that specializes in a particular field, such as textile arts, interior design or antiques, can use their skills and knowledge as leverage to attract more clients.

The job outlook for this occupation shows dwindling employment opportunities, with projected growth of 4% for arts and design occupations from 2016 to 2026. This is a slower than average rate for all occupations in the U.S. Roughly 33,700 new positions are expected to emerge during this time period, with some openings speaking directly to the talents of an arts consultant.