What skills do grant administration networks want from their members?

1 Communication skills

Communication is essential for grant administration, as it involves interacting with various stakeholders, such as funders, partners, beneficiaries, staff, and auditors. Grant administrators need to communicate clearly, respectfully, and persuasively, using different modes and channels, such as written reports, oral presentations, emails, and online platforms. They also need to listen actively, ask relevant questions, and provide constructive feedback. Communication skills can help grant administrators build trust, rapport, and collaboration with their network members and peers.

2 Technical skills

Technical skills are the specific knowledge and abilities that grant administrators need to perform their tasks effectively and efficiently. These include budgeting, accounting, compliance, evaluation, data analysis, project management, and software applications. Grant administrators need to master the technical aspects of grant management, such as preparing proposals, tracking expenditures, reporting on outcomes, and ensuring adherence to rules and regulations. They also need to keep up with the latest trends and best practices in grant administration and learn new tools and techniques. Technical skills can help grant administrators deliver high-quality results and demonstrate their expertise to their network members and funders.

3 Problem-solving skills

Problem-solving skills are the capacity to identify, analyze, and resolve issues that arise in grant administration. These include anticipating potential risks, developing contingency plans, adapting to changing circumstances, and finding creative solutions. Grant administrators need to be proactive, resourceful, and flexible, as they often face challenges and uncertainties in grant management, such as delays, budget cuts, conflicts, and emergencies. They also need to involve and consult with their network members and partners, as they may have valuable insights and suggestions. Problem-solving skills can help grant administrators overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

4 Interpersonal skills

Interpersonal skills are the ability to relate to and work with others in a positive and productive way. These include teamwork, leadership, negotiation, conflict resolution, and cultural sensitivity. Grant administrators need to cooperate and coordinate with their network members and partners, as grant management is often a collaborative effort that requires shared vision, roles, and responsibilities. They also need to lead and motivate their staff and volunteers, negotiate with funders and suppliers, resolve disputes and misunderstandings, and respect diversity and inclusion. Interpersonal skills can help grant administrators foster strong relationships and partnerships.

5 Ethical skills

Ethical skills are the principles and values that guide grant administration. These include honesty, integrity, accountability, transparency, and social responsibility. Grant administrators need to uphold high ethical standards in grant management, as they are entrusted with public funds and expected to deliver social impact. They also need to comply with the codes of conduct and ethics of their network members and funders, as well as the laws and regulations of the countries and sectors they operate in. They also need to promote and protect the rights and interests of their beneficiaries and stakeholders. Ethical skills can help grant administrators ensure legitimacy and credibility.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?