Page 22 - 2024 Nonprofit Industry Trends

NONPROFIT
21 In my networking, I have the honor of knowing, connecting with, and
NETWORKING collaborating with many leaders of nonprofit organizations which offers
perspective through a unique lens. Having interviewed more than 150
nonprofit executive leaders on Philanthropy in Phocus, since January of
2021 – I have been able to gain some unique insights. In my experience in
2023, networking for nonprofit organizations proved to be as important
as ever, although at times it looked different than it had looked in the
past. Nonprofit organizations, like other businesses network and build
relationships for a variety of reasons and with a very specific set of
outcomes. In nonprofit organizations, some reasons for networking are:
► To grow their donor base
► To form alliances with for-profit businesses, government agencies,
faith-based organizations, and other mission-driven organizations
► To build their brand recognition
► Attract board members and volunteers
► Professional development
► Give back – help others
► Attract new employees
When building a networking strategy, while traditional methods work, I
see the importance of adopting or continuing to evolve an organization’s
use of social media platforms, as well as exploring utilizing Artificial
Intelligence programs. Like creating a strategic plan for your organization,
it’s also important to consider a strategic plan specifically for your
networking initiatives. While meeting new people, making connections,
and learning about each other can be fun and exciting, what is important
is the idea to create a win-win experience with measurable results.
*Some ideas to consider when planning your networking strategy*
N etworking and relationship building have forever been critical ► Why are you networking?
practices for nonprofit organizations, their leaders, and other
major organizational stakeholders such as board members, community ► Who are you looking to meet?
relations professionals, fundraising professionals, and development
teams. ► How will both parties benefit from the connection?
► How will you evaluate success?
► How will you add value and nurture these relationships?
While pen and notebook can work, spreadsheets and potentially using
a CRM system are often beneficial when managing an organization’s
relationships. Many organizations use CRMs and donor management
tools to manage donor data - I see the opportunity to leverage such
tools in networking practices as well.
When it comes to the how and where, it is important to identify where, as
in what types of groups or events you want to attend, as well as if there
is a specific geography focus.
A major boon for nonprofit professionals and others from the COVID era
was the high adoption of virtual and hybrid networking events. While
many believe that virtual meetings and events may at times lack some
level of connection experienced at a live in-person event, I believe
that the efficiency and reach of the virtual connection offset some of
the shortfalls. To my surprise, I have developed some incredibly strong
connections with people that I have yet to meet in person. I have grown
my network substantially over the last 3 years, specifically across the
US and in some international markets. Not only has this had a positive
effect on my business and me – but it also has added value to those in
my network by way of introductions that I can facilitate. I know many
nonprofits that have grown substantially, created new collaborations,
and enhanced programming with much less regard for the geographic
distance that may have seemed prohibitive in the past. I also know others
who have focused locally and have had success in forming relationships
with strategic partners by exploring creativity and innovation.
I expect in 2024 to see continued opportunities for nonprofit professionals
to leverage their networks and create and nurture new relationships. I
believe that a well-thought-out networking plan and strategic effort can
support an organization’s growth and impact in 2024 and beyond!
Many people have heard that your “Network is your net worth” – I have
been known to discuss the importance of Social Capital consistently
saying things like – “I am only as strong as my network” or “my success
is based on the strength of my Social Capital.”
TOMMY DIMISA
PHILANTHROPIST
PHILANTHROPY IN PHOCUS & VANGUARD BENEFITS
22
ROBERT CIATTO
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
ACLD
The major issue in our field is the workforce. Our industry continues to deal with
evolving issues such as staff shortages and lack of funding to support increases
in salary. We have always been impacted by the funding, but it is at the forefront
now as we deal with rising inflationary costs and the workforce shortage. These
days, you need to make sure you collaborate with your peers in the field. Brainstorm
and share ideas. Focus on your workforce and not just the salaries. It is important
to also reflect on what benefits package you can offer and what culture you can
develop so that people enjoy being at work.
In addition, there is still a tremendous level of uncertainty surrounding the
economy and on-going government and private funding, and that uncertainty will
carry over into 2024. Based on the questions surrounding how the industry will
change the funding methodology in the future there will be a significant risk for
smaller organizations to continue to exist. The continued information references not
putting new money into the system and redistributing current funds. This situation
will create winners and losers based on the current rate structure. With that as a
major obstacle, the increasing needs of the people supported with inflationary costs
make it very difficult for organizations to run without significant deficits. Therefore,
continued advocacy will be needed to conduct a realistic assessment of what the
industry needs. Appropriate funding based on this information will be needed for
the system to exist. Better oversight from governing bodies will be essential. Truly
partnering with the agency providers and government would be a step in the right
direction. As stated within the other questions, staffing is essential.