Story is everything, but I have something shocking to tell you. This is one of the things small to medium-sized nonprofits find the most difficult. It has nothing to do with whether or not the stories are there to tell (usually!), and everything to do with thin teams and not enough hours in the day. I cannot over-emphasize the difference learning how to tell YOUR story will make. Prioritize this to see shifts in partner connection, loyalty, frequency, and size of gifts.
Your partners FEEL before they make any decision to give. As you wrap up your February Love & Loyalty month, you are "in the zone" of stories about your organization's incredible impact—it is the perfect time to think through your new assignment. Every month, March through October, send a digital and print version of your "Storyletter." Wrap your partners up in the story of what they (not you) are doing. Wrap your friends who have not yet given up in the story of what they COULD be doing.
And yes, you need to mail it too. Stop asking if you can abandon direct mail—the answer is NO. :) If World Vision does it, there’s a reason, and you should do it too. The slightly expensive news is that direct mail is not dead. :)
With Joy!
P.S.» Is this coaching series valuable to you? If so, please share with 3 to 4 of your nonprofit friends!
P.S.S. » My tribe who has subscribed to The Zion Model 52-week SMART Plan Playbook will find February Week Four below. And if you need to schedule a discovery consultation for customized guidance,
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