Effective Fundraising Communication Tips for Difficult Times
The Terri Lynn Fundraising community is navigating the COVID-19 pandemic together. Plans have been changed, trade shows and events have been canceled, and groups everywhere are looking for creative ways to keep on doing good.
Post Date: Apr 3 2020
At the time of writing, the Terri Lynn Fundraising community is navigating the COVID-19 pandemic together. Plans have been changed, trade shows and events have been canceled, and groups everywhere are looking for creative ways to keep on doing good.
Despite the concerning situation, it has been very heartening to witness how good communication has provided vital messaging — AND kept all of us connected.
Compassionate, relevant communication works—always!
Communication is an essential part of any fundraising strategy — both when it’s business as usual, and during difficult times like these. Good communication:
- Is always cost-effective — the more organized you are in your marketing, the more efficient you'll be, and the more profit you'll realize in the end.
- And it can yield better results — compelling communication almost always results in improved response and greater support.
Helping other people is at the heart of every fundraising campaign. Now is the time to emphasize that your good work will continue to be done, because the need is still there.
To further enhance that outcome, keep the following guidelines in mind:
Keep It Brief
Short and sweet rules the day. Don’t overwhelm your supporters with too many details. Deliver your message and your “ask,” without a lot of clutter.
Be (Strategically) Repetitive
Emphasize your fundraising message by repeating it. Say your ask twice, and make it crystal clear each time. Also make sure to give added emphasis to your “call to action.”
Make It Personal & Positive
You want your audience to care about your cause. And you want to stress the positive aspects! For example: rather than dwelling on the dire conditions of stray cats and dogs, talk about the positives of your group’s work with good shelters and adoptions. Amplify successes, whenever you can.
Know Your Goal
Are you trying to raise awareness and educate people about your cause? Or, is your organization looking for donations or support by selling products? Stay focused on your key objective throughout your pitch.
Tell Stories
A relatable story about your cause, and who will benefit, is the best way get supporters interested. And the right story can powerfully motivate supporters to spend some money. You know what they say: statistics tell, but stories sell.
During this time of working remotely, conducting business online, and social-distancing, effective communications are key — and so is having an online outlet for fundraising. Terri Lynn Fundraising Webstores might just be the perfect “hands-off” solution for your current outreach challenges.
Once your group opens a Webstore, you’ll find that your online store has an easy to navigate dashboard — complete with email communication and social media tools.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us. One of our Fundraising Specialists will be happy to answer your questions and
get your organization started. Call 1-800-323-0775 or email us at
customerservicef@terrilynn.com.
We’re wishing all of our fundraising partners good health and success with your important charitable work -- we know your good work must continue to be done, and we're here to help you make it happen!