Application Guide

How to Apply for Communications Manager

at PowerSwitch Action

🏢 About PowerSwitch Action

PowerSwitch Action (formerly the Partnership for Working Families) is a national network of 21 grassroots organizations fighting for multiracial feminist democracy. They pioneer innovative policy and organizing approaches in cities and states, challenging corporate power and building people-powered movements. Working here means joining a collaborative, mission-driven team that values bold, transformative change.

About This Role

As Communications Manager, you'll be at the heart of PowerSwitch Action's national and local campaigns, shaping narratives and driving digital strategy. You'll partner with affiliates on high-impact organizing, policy, and corporate campaigns, and use your communications toolbox to amplify grassroots voices and inspire action. This role is impactful because you'll directly contribute to shifting power and advancing a just democracy.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve a morning check-in with the Communications Director to align on priorities, followed by drafting an email blast for a campaign or coordinating with a local affiliate on a press release. You might spend time analyzing social media metrics, planning a content calendar, or hopping on a call with a partner organization to coordinate messaging. Afternoons could be dedicated to writing a blog post or preparing materials for an upcoming action, all while managing deadlines and collaborating remotely.

🎯 Who PowerSwitch Action Is Looking For

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📝 Tips for Applying to PowerSwitch Action

1

Highlight any experience with local or grassroots organizing, especially in coalition with community groups or labor unions, to show alignment with PowerSwitch Action's network model.

2

In your resume and cover letter, use specific examples of campaigns where you used digital strategy to shape narratives or grow audiences, and quantify results (e.g., email list growth, social media engagement).

3

Demonstrate your understanding of multiracial feminist democracy and corporate power by referencing relevant campaigns or issues in your application.

4

Show your ability to work remotely and collaborate across time zones, as the role is remote and involves partners across the US.

5

Tailor your portfolio or work samples to include a mix of email, social media, press releases, and messaging documents that showcase your versatility.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

- Emphasize your passion for social justice and your commitment to advancing multiracial feminist democracy. - Highlight your experience in campaign communications, particularly in coalition settings or with grassroots organizations. - Showcase your digital strategy skills and how you've used them to amplify community voices and drive engagement. - Mention your ability to collaborate with diverse teams and manage multiple projects, as this role requires close work with various internal and external partners.

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Visit PowerSwitch Action's website and read about their current campaigns, especially any related to corporate accountability, workers' rights, or housing.
  • Look into their network of affiliates to understand the local focus and how national communications support their work.
  • Review their social media channels and recent press releases to get a sense of their tone, messaging, and digital presence.
  • Research the Communications Director and other key staff on LinkedIn or the website to understand their backgrounds and priorities.
Visit PowerSwitch Action's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you developed and executed a communications strategy for a campaign. What were the goals, tactics, and outcomes?
2 How do you approach messaging for complex policy issues to make them accessible and compelling to diverse audiences?
3 Give an example of an innovative digital tactic you've used or would like to try. How did it or would it advance a campaign?
4 How do you handle working with multiple partners (e.g., local affiliates, national staff) with potentially different communication needs?
5 What does 'multiracial feminist democracy' mean to you, and how would you apply it in your communications work?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid a generic cover letter that doesn't mention PowerSwitch Action or its mission. They want to see your alignment with their values.
  • Don't overlook the importance of local, on-the-ground experience. If you lack direct campaign experience, emphasize transferable skills and relevant volunteer work.
  • Avoid focusing only on national or federal politics. This role is about city and state-level campaigns, so show understanding of local power dynamics.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to PowerSwitch Action!