6 Tips for Nonprofits That Want to Rise Above the Recession

Jan. 6, 2009 - PRLog -- As 2009 begins and the country works to recover from Wall Street’s recent meltdown, nonprofit organizations must communicate with their members and donors to secure long-term success. Organizations that stay connected with their audiences during tough times prove they are strong and well-established. Here are six tips for groups that want to rise above the recession and continue to raise awareness of their mission.

1. Work on your Website.  
Take time to go through your Website and make sure it aligns with the organization’s priorities. A Website should contain strong and clear content, be updated on a regular basis, showcase the organization’s successes, be easy to navigate, and of course, be professional and pleasing to the eye. It is worth asking someone’s opinion outside the organization.

2. Say your name.
There are a countless number of industry meetings each year. Getting your name out at these events is a great way to gain credibility, network and promote your organization. Check out http://www.tsnn.com for opportunities within your industry.

3. Make news in the New Year.
The number one reason organizations do not receive media coverage is because they don’t try. Compile a press release that gives “health tips for the New Year” or an “action list for the incoming President.” Share human interest stories with the media, such as patients who have overcome difficult situations, or conduct a survey of your membership.

4. Enter the social media marketplace.
The media marketplace is expanding and if organizations are going to stay alive they must learn how to communicate through social media outlets such as LinkedIn, Twitter, MySpace and Facebook. According to a recent survey, conducted by Millward Brown, over 75 percent of senior marketers say they expect spending on new media to increase in the coming year, despite weakened economic conditions. Blogging cannot be ignored either. There are more than 13 million active blogs, with thousands of new ones appearing daily. Hosting a blog takes staff time but posting on existing blogs can also successfully raise awareness.

5. Help your local media.
The first step is building a media database. This can be time-consuming, but a necessity for any organization. Reach out to local reporters and introduce yourself. Let them know you exist and that you can serve as a resource for future stories. They will appreciate your effort.

6. Write about what you know.
Writing articles is an effective way to gain exposure for your organization. Articles allow you to reach new audiences and establish expertise. Contact industry publications for their submission processes. You can also submit opinion editorials and letters to the editor to newspapers that will raise awareness of issues important to your organization.

As nonprofits deal with cut backs, organizations should be wary about eliminating marketing and public relations. The challenge of building trust with your donors and members has never been greater. Time has shown that downturns are the ideal time to tell your stories and that persistent marketers will be rewarded.

# # #

About Cunningham Strategic Communications
Cunningham Strategic Communications (CSC), founded in February 2007, is a communication firm that partners with mission-focused clients. For more information, please visit http://www.cunninghampr.com.