Here are 5 methods that non-profits are using to engage, attract, and connect with their donors:
1. Ask Your Donors
While communicating with your donors is important, it’s critical that you ask them what the best way is to engage with them. Seek their suggestions and ideas so that you can be sure that are engaged as possible.
Regardless of how and where you communicate, keep doing it! Donors want—and need—to hear from you.
2. Texting
Texting is pretty new for most organizations… but it works! And we’ve heard good things about using apps to facilitate text communications.
Unlike email, 95% of texts are read within 3 minutes of being sent.
Keep text messages brief and inspiring. Non-profits can use texting to update donors on campaigns, use a text-to-give program, keep donors involved in their cause, send multimedia messages like videos and pictures, and show the impact their gift is having.
3. Video Brochures and Direct Mail
Video brochures are becoming popular communication method. This is a card-based product with a screen housed in it and a sound chip and USB memory that provides the video content. Its an effective and impactful way to connect with your donors with something unexpected.
Yes, it feels a bit like going backwards, but now that the working world uses digital communications for almost everything, direct mail can help your foundation stand out!
70% of Americans say that direct mail feels more personal than digital communications and makes them feel more special.
Some effective ways to use direct mail include sending handwritten thank-you letters/notes, gifts, quarantine care packages, and foundation branded merchandise. Consider also sending your impact or annual report via mail.
4. Social Media
95% of adults aged 18-34 are likely to follow organizations just like yours through social media.
Now, in particular, an organization’s posts can provide a much-needed inspiration break on people’s feeds, while also giving them a chance to get involved in doing good.
With the majority of adults connecting with brands on social media, it’s important for foundations to have an effective and active social media strategy in place.
Consider using one-to-one messaging, sending multimedia messages using videos or pictures, connecting new donors with long-time loyal donors, sharing stories, and running surveys (a great way to begin engagement with a new audience). Use social media to keep donors engaged and involved in the cause and impact of your foundation.
5. Virtual Events
Creating and hosting a virtual event is a great way to engage your donors while also reaching a larger audience. Many organizations are successfully connecting to donors through virtual galas, contests, and even online gaming days! We’ve compiled a list of ideas and more information about virtual events.