Creating a Winning Strategy for Your Non-Profit Organization Comes Down to These 3 Key Elements

Non-profit organizations come in all shapes and sizes. Some non-profits strive to help disadvantaged people, some exist for the betterment of animals, and others still have different but equally important missions. 

But, there are a few things that all nonprofits should have in common in order to be successful:  clear communication, connection, and concrete objectives. 

Communication

Similar to for-profit organizations, nonprofits need to be able to communicate with their intended audience clearly and effectively. This includes communicating in the following areas: 

• On your nonprofit website

• On social media pages

• In emails and correspondence with customers

• In other marketing materials

• Internal communication with team members and stakeholders

Having a clear sense of what your non-profit stands for, what your mission is, and how you plan to give back to your chosen cause are key components of building a successful foundation for your nonprofit. 

If you’re new to communications and branding, an affordable and effective way to learn effective communication is through free online training and books about marketing and business. 

After all, if people don’t know who you are or what you stand for, how can they trust you? And if they don’t trust you, they’re much less likely to donate. 

Connection 

Connection is critical for any business, but perhaps even more so for a nonprofit. In order to attract potential donors and supporters, it must be clear why you’re doing what you’re doing. People need to see the human connection and human stories reflected in your nonprofit if they’re going to donate their hard-earned cash or share your message with others. 

In addition to making connection a focal point of your nonprofit in order to attract new donors, it’s critical to maintain a connection with your existing donors and supporters. People need to feel seen, appreciated and cared for if you want to maintain a long-term fundraising relationship with them. 

Concrete Objectives

The backbone of any marketing or business strategy is creating clear objectives or SMART objectives. SMART stands for: 

• Specific

• Measurable

• Achievable 

• Relevant

• Time-Bound

Basically, this means that you need to have clear goals for your non-profit, that are specific, measurable, and have a target date in mind. Without clear objectives, it’s easy to get lost or overwhelmed in a sea of too many marketing and business strategies. By deciding what you want to achieve and when you can choose marketing strategies that will get you closer to your goals. 

Running a successful nonprofit is no easy feat, but it’s almost always worth it when you’re able to make a difference in a cause that’s important to you. Check out our nonprofit and charity section for book suggestions, and wholesale book discounts for your organization.