Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Impact Assessment • Endowment • Major Gifts

Theory of Change

Term from Nonprofit Organizations industry explained for recruiters

Theory of Change is a planning method that nonprofit organizations use to map out how their programs will create positive changes in communities. Think of it as a roadmap that shows step-by-step how activities lead to desired results. For example, if a nonprofit wants to reduce hunger in a neighborhood, their Theory of Change would explain how food distribution programs connect to better nutrition and improved community health. Similar terms include "Logic Model," "Impact Framework," or "Strategic Planning Framework." Organizations use this approach to show donors and stakeholders how their work makes a real difference.

Examples in Resumes

Developed Theory of Change models for youth education programs, leading to 40% increase in grant funding

Facilitated workshops to create organizational Theory of Change and Logic Models with staff and stakeholders

Led impact evaluation using Theory of Change framework to measure program effectiveness

Typical job title: "Impact Managers"

Also try searching for:

Program Manager Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist Impact Officer Nonprofit Strategist Grant Writer Program Director Strategic Planning Manager

Where to Find Impact Managers

Professional Networks

Learning Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you lead a team in developing a Theory of Change for a complex multi-year program?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in facilitating group processes, ability to break down complex problems, and knowledge of how to engage different stakeholders. They should mention methods for building consensus and ensuring the model is both practical and measurable.

Q: How do you connect Theory of Change to fundraising strategy?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should explain how to translate program logic into compelling grant proposals, how to use Theory of Change to demonstrate impact to donors, and experience using the framework to secure funding.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain how you would develop indicators to measure progress in a Theory of Change?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how to create measurable indicators, discuss different types of data collection methods, and show understanding of how to track both short-term and long-term outcomes.

Q: How do you involve community stakeholders in creating a Theory of Change?

Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for gathering community input, facilitating inclusive planning sessions, and ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in the final model.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a Theory of Change and why is it important for nonprofits?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept of how activities lead to outcomes, and why this planning tool helps organizations track and demonstrate their impact.

Q: What's the difference between outputs and outcomes in a Theory of Change?

Expected Answer: Should understand that outputs are immediate results (like number of people served) while outcomes are the actual changes created (like improved health or education levels).