All smart nonprofits will begin, if they haven't already, to use forecasting software to help them take a peek at what the organization will look like six months to a year down the road. While finances may seem good for the remainder of the year, there is never an instance when decision-makers at a nonprofit should feel like they have enough donors and investors. Continuing to pursue funding is the mark of an organization that will be strong for years to come.
Nonprofits will usually have several types of people who follow their organization. By grouping these people together according to their interactions with the organizations, it is easier to figure out ways to draw them in. Here are some personality types of potential givers to a nonprofit and how to make sure they will make a strong contribution to the organization.
Upbeat, but not willing to give
When members of the organization are briefing potential lenders on the status of the organization for the upcoming months, there are often people at the meeting who seem very interested in donating but never pull the trigger. According to Inc. magazine, decision-makers at the nonprofit need to lure these people in by developing a sense of trust with them. Forming stronger bonds with their associates and others in their industry will make it easier for them to make an investment in the organization down the road.
Followers who don't respond
Nonprofits will often try out marketing campaigns that are designed to get people to recognize the organization and relate to its cause. However, there are some people on direct mail, email and social media lists who simply don't respond to anything put out by the organization. An article for Nonprofit Quarterly said the public mission that the organization works toward should speak loudest to potential investors, and even the people who don't respond to marketing strategies could be more willing to give if the message from the organization is authentic.
Data-driven donors
Nonprofits that share their budgeting information with their followers might have a better chance of drawing in investors, especially those who are driven by facts and figures. Inc. magazine stated nonprofits should provide as much information as they can with prospective lenders as possible, either trying to "wow" them with their forecasting software or show them their organization really needs some help to stay above water. With more information at their fingertips, data-driven donors may be want to invest in the nonprofit.