Qualifications

Qualifications

 
We get the picture. (Source)

Before an organization like McDonald's, Ford, or Big Brothers and Big Sisters hires you to be their lifeline to the community, you'll have to demonstrate the stuff they're looking for. And what, exactly, is that stuff? Hint: it's not two all-beef patties with lettuce and tomato, Heinz 57, and French-fried potato.

The first requirement is your education. A bachelor's degree is a must: you'll need a fancy piece of paper that says political science, economics, environmental science, communications, or one of a dozen other business-, sustainability-, or marketing-related fields you could major in. Even a pre-law degree can make you more hirable. If you want to leapfrog over the competition, though, consider getting a master's or even a Ph.D. (source). 

The second requirement is your personality. If you want to be a CSR manager, you'll have to learn to juggle the needs of your employer, your consumer base, and the greater community at large (both people- and nature-wise). That means you have to be able to talk a great game, whether you're speaking to a room full of suits or a backyard garden party filled with hipsters.

You also need to have a sense of dedication to the community. This job isn't a cynical, sarcastic, "we totally care about the environment" kind of position; it's really, honestly about actually making a difference. If you can look at a rainforest getting chopped to smithereens and not shed a tear, there are other positions in the business world that you might prefer