Let's be (strategically) careful out there!

I have a greater tolerance for change and risk than many of my colleagues. I'm often the among the first to try a new app or adopt a new strategy. Yet, even I tend to defer to the tried and true in communications. But perhaps taking safe risks in nonprofit communications is about finding that balance between trying something new and ensuring it aligns with your organization's mission and values.

In the world of nonprofit organizations, communication is key. It's how we engage with donors, volunteers, beneficiaries, and the community at large. However, in an era where standing out is increasingly challenging, it's important to explore innovative communication strategies that can set your nonprofit apart. In this blog post, we'll delve into the concept of taking safe risks in nonprofit communications and explore how to do it effectively.

1. Embrace a Culture of Innovation

Before you can start taking safe risks in your communication strategies, it's essential to cultivate a culture of innovation within your nonprofit organization. Encourage your team to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and be open to change. By fostering an environment where creativity is celebrated, you pave the way for innovative communication approaches.

2. Define Your Safe Risks

The term "safe risks" might sound contradictory, but in the context of nonprofit communications, it means taking calculated steps to try something new while minimizing potential negative consequences. Start by defining what these safe risks look like for your organization. Consider the following questions:

• What are our communication goals?
• What challenges or issues are we trying to address?
• How can we engage our audience in a more compelling way?
• What resources (time, budget, staff) can we allocate to this experiment?

3. Audience-Centric Approach

One safe risk you can take is adopting a more audience-centric approach to your communications. Invest time in understanding your donors, volunteers, and the community you serve. Conduct surveys, interviews, and collect data to create more personalized, relevant messages. Tailoring your communications to the needs and interests of your audience can yield positive results.

4. Experiment with New Platforms

The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and nonprofits need to adapt. Consider experimenting with new communication platforms. Whether it's social media, podcasts, video content, or live streaming, test out different mediums to reach your audience. Ensure that you monitor the performance of each platform to identify what works best for your organization.

5. Storytelling with Impact

Nonprofit organizations often have powerful stories to tell. A safe risk in communication is to tell these stories in a more compelling and emotional way. Use multimedia elements, such as videos and images, to capture the essence of your mission. Share success stories, showcase the impact of your work, and make your supporters feel like they are an integral part of your journey.

6. Collaborate and Partner

Collaboration can be a safe risk with immense rewards. Consider partnerships with other nonprofit organizations or businesses that share your mission or values. Joint campaigns can extend your reach and bring in new supporters. Collaborations can also help you tap into fresh communication strategies and ideas.

7. Data-Driven Decision Making

Finally, to ensure that your safe risks are paying off, adopt a data-driven approach. Regularly analyze the performance of your communication efforts. Use metrics such as engagement rates, conversion rates, and website traffic to assess what's working and what needs adjustment.

By embracing innovation, being audience-centric, and constantly evaluating your efforts, you can elevate your nonprofit's communications to new heights, ultimately creating a stronger connection with your supporters and making a bigger impact in the world.