Episode 16 – Hiring With Purpose: How to Attract and Keep Top Nonprofit Talent
Host: May Harris, Esq.
Guests: Trevor Blair
“I wouldn't say it's unheard of, but it was not common for nonprofit organizations to retain a search firm. It was seen as very expensive and something only big corporations do. Now, we have seen that the sectors realize they can't afford not to work with a professional search firm because talent acquisition is one of the most important things outside fundraising. It is the second most important source of lifeblood for the organization.”
- Trevor Blair
In This Episode
Smart strategies for building strong nonprofit teams and a culture that lasts.
Hiring the right people can make or break a nonprofit’s success. In this episode, May Harris sits down with Trevor Blair, founder of Blair Search Partners, to talk about what nonprofits need to know before starting the hiring process. They discuss why recruitment is more than posting a job ad, how organizational culture impacts hiring and retention, and why treating every candidate with respect—even those you don’t hire—matters. Trevor also shares insights on mentoring new employees, balancing in-office and remote work, and creating a hiring process designed for long-term success.
Key Takeaways
Insightful moments and lessons from the conversation.
Why nonprofits benefit from using search firms for key hires.
How recruitment differs from simply advertising a job.
The critical role of organizational culture in attracting top talent.
Why face-to-face mentorship and flexible schedules help retain employees.
Human-centered design principles for hiring and team management.
Guest Bio: Trevor Blair
With over 20 years of experience in executive search, recruiting, and workforce development, Trevor Blair helps nonprofits build strong, mission-driven teams. After launching Blair Search Partners in 2016, he has led 30-40 search engagements annually for clients across California and the East Coast. His career includes developing training and job placement programs for underserved communities, securing public and private funding, and advising on recruitment strategies. Trevor is deeply engaged in his community through board and committee roles with LEAD San Diego, Zero8hundred, and Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties. An avid endurance athlete, he has completed over 200 triathlons, 10 Ironman races, and 3 Boston Marathons. Trevor lives in San Diego with his wife Megan and their two young children.
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