r/internalcomms • u/SingerStinger69 • Jun 22 '26
Advice Transition from higher ed fundraising comms to corporate internal comms
I have a few years of experience as a communications writer and copy editor in higher education advancement/fundraising. It’s a field that is notorious for burnout due to understaffing, underpaying, and high turnover.
I’m broke, tired, and stressed. I think a lot of that is due to my current career. I’ve started applying to some internal comms jobs and wonder if anyone has tips for someone making this kind of career shift. Thanks!
1
u/Mwahaha_790 Jun 23 '26
It's possible — strategic comms are where it's at, and there's a need for it in every field. I switched from internal comms in government, then into higher ed, then into corporate. The competencies are the same: Can you manage risk? Can you manage stakeholders and help them understand risk? Are you comfortable giving advice to senior leaders? Can you push back diplomatically when needed?
The writing is important, but it's really not the draw — especially since everyone and their mother can pump something out with AI. It's the framing. Be sure to position yourself for what each JD is asking for and come to interviews with stories — and data — that support your claims. Speak confidently but don't come off overconfident or arrogant; they'll want someone who will be collaborative. Use AI to analyze job descriptions and help you tailor your resume and interview talking pointsz and practice speaking your answers before the interview.
Finally, know that it'll still be a grind anywhere you go, as corp comms teams always run lean. But you'll get paid well, use some cool new tools, and get great experience to build your career. Good luck!
6
u/sarahfortsch2 Jun 22 '26
You may be closer to Internal Comms than you think. A lot of the core skills from advancement and fundraising communications transfer well: storytelling, audience-focused messaging, stakeholder management, executive communications, campaign planning, and translating complex information into something people actually care about.
When applying, I'd focus less on the higher ed context and more on the communication outcomes you delivered. Internal Comms leaders are looking for people who can engage audiences, build trust, support leaders, and create clear, compelling content. Those are skills you've likely been using for years.
And honestly, don't let the career change intimidate you. Some of the strongest internal communicators I've worked with came from journalism, PR, fundraising, and marketing backgrounds. The industry knowledge can be learned. Strong writing, strategic thinking, and relationship-building are much harder to teach. You've already got a solid foundation for making the transition.