One of my business resolutions // intentions for 2020 was to start putting myself out there more.
So in January, I joined a co-working space (I needed a push to get out of yoga clothes at least a few times a week).
I made a goal to do at least one networking event per week.
And I committed to sending out a monthly e-newsletter.
EEEK!
For someone who is a massive introvert, the idea of sharing my ideas and thoughts on a regular basis is super uncomfortable.
But I know from experience that discomfort is a precursor to growth.
Yay, growth.
The result of my newsletter resolution is The 8. Each month The 8 will feature eight tips to help you with communications and marketing -- and will land in your inbox on, yup, you guessed it, the 8th of each month.
(Eight *might* be my favorite number.)
Each month I’ll repost the prior month’s issue here on the blog, but if you want to get the hot-off-the-press version of The 8, you can sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox.
January’s issue was all about creating a communications strategy.
It’s a new year, and for a lot of nonprofits, that also means a new fiscal year.
As you look ahead to what kind of impact you want to make in 2020 (and beyond), have you thought about how you are going to get there?
Yes, I’m talking about the “S” word -- strategy.
Look, your strategy doesn’t have to be complicated.
Having a strategy gives you a framework for the work you do -- so you can be intentional with the opportunities and projects that come your way.
Here are some simple tips to help you build a communications strategy to make the biggest impact.
Know your goals
It’s hard to hit a target if you don’t know what it is. Are your organization’s goals clear? Are they measurable? What does success look like? P.S. What’s your timeline to reach your goals?
Integration / Alignment
Your marketing / communications strategy should align with your entire organization -- fundraising, major gifts, volunteerism, programs, board communications, etc. Let’s kick down those silos, OK?
Collaborate
Make strategy building a team effort. Talk to the different teams in your organization. Collectively discuss your goals. And don’t be afraid to get feedback from your board, your volunteers and your donors.
Timing
Map out your year. What events or programs are already scheduled? What holidays, awareness months, cultural / sports events can you use as a communications / marketing opportunity for your organization?
Simplicity
Less really is more. You don’t need a 20-page PowerPoint presentation to document your strategy. Keep your strategy tight and your team will thank you.
Communicate
Share your plan with your team and other stakeholders. This keeps you accountable AND it helps with buy-in. People who have some sort of ownership are going to be more invested in sticking to the strategy.
Flexibility
Plans change. Opportunities arise. Your strategy should have flexibility for the unknowns that will invariably come up.
Review
Take time at least each quarter to pull out your strategy document, dust it off and review it with your team. What’s working? What’s not? Are there any areas where you need pivot?
If you need more help in mapping out your communications / marketing strategy for 2020 and beyond, I’d love to work with you. Sign up here for a free 30-minute consultation to talk about your needs and goals.
Until next month!