Public Relations is a tough industry, there is no question about it, but imagine trying to meet expectations and accomplish basic communication goals with no budget, limited resources and minimum staff. Unfortunately, this is the reality for public relations practitioners in the nonprofit sector.
Although extremely challenging, working in the nonprofit sector is also extremely rewarding and there are many ways of utilizing resources to the best of your ability to make do with what you have. The biggest advantage in the nonprofit sector is your audience. They are more than consumers, they are supporters who believe in your cause and public relations is a core component of a nonprofit’s ability to communicate with their supporters.
Helpful Tips:
- Expand Your Reach: There are a lot nonprofits out there vying for support. Public Relations plays a major role in helping these organizations not only continue communication with their current supporters, but finding ways of growing those supporter networks. Without supporters, funds can’t be raised, volunteers can’t be recruited and missions can’t be completed.
- Increase Funding: Fundraising campaigns can be a dime a dozen. A good Public Relations campaign can be the difference between $20 and $2,000 raised. An innovative “ask” will help your organization stand out in the crowd. Donors need to feel confident that their gifts are truly making a difference in their community. Get creative!
- Develop a Community: Create a community around your cause. Social media is a great tool and it’s free! Communities created through Facebook are loyal and help your organization achieve long term support. Don’t forget Twitter and the power of the hashtag! Start a rally around a hashtag that ties into your campaign and don’t be afraid to engage with your followers. A retweet or share can be just as valuable as a donation.
- Inspire Partnerships: Generating support and extending your reach can be a great way to develop partnerships with organizations with a similar mission. It’s important to keep in mind that you audience spans beyond donors and volunteers. Building lasting partnerships is the best way to collaborate so your message is heard by as many potential supporters as possible.
- Make A Difference: Creating opportunities for nonprofits through Public Relations is an amazing way to use your education and experience to give back and make an impact in your community. It becomes more than a job. Take your passions and develop a career that will allow you to truly make a difference in the world.
Whether you are looking for a career in the nonprofit sector or are looking for opportunities to volunteer your time, find a cause that is near and dear to your heart and get involved. It will be challenging, but nothing a Trojan can’t handle!