Page 59 - C&A's Nonprofit Board Guide

UNDERSTANDING MILLENNIALS AND GEN Z: PEER-TO-PEER INFLUENCE 3. EMBRACE DIVERSITY:
KEY TO RECRUITING THEM TO NONPROFIT BOARDS One of the most potent assets of younger Younger generations value diversity in

board members is their peer-to-peer action, not just in rhetoric. Ensure that your
o navigate the evolving nonprofit
T landscape successfully, organizations GEN Z: DIGITAL NATIVES AND influence. They excel in mobilizing support board reflects diverse perspectives, including
SOCIALLY CONSCIOUS
must tap into the unique perspectives through relatable messaging and personal age diversity, to foster inclusive decision-
and skills that Millennials and Gen Z bring Gen Z, the first true digital natives, has networks. Peer-to-peer campaigns organized making and community representation.
to the table. These younger generations, never known a world without the internet by younger members often yield higher
shaped by digital fluency and a strong sense and smartphones. They are characterized by engagement and conversion rates, tapping 4. TECH INTEGRATION:
of social responsibility, offer invaluable their fluency in digital communication and into their authenticity and community Demonstrate your nonprofit’s commitment
connections.
contributions to board governance and reliance on social media for information and to innovation by embracing technology.
strategic leadership. Here’s why recruiting engagement. Gen Z values sustainability,
them is essential and how nonprofits can diversity, and inclusivity, expecting ENSURING RELEVANCE AND Implementing robust digital tools and
effectively engage them. organizations to demonstrate genuine SUSTAINABLE GROWTH platforms not only enhances operational
efficiency but also attracts tech-savvy board
commitment to these values. They are Beyond fundraising, younger board members.
WHY DIVERSE proactive in seeking out opportunities to
PERSPECTIVES MATTER make a positive social impact and are eager members contribute to organizational 5. CULTIVATE ENGAGEMENT:
relevance and growth by staying attuned to
to contribute their skills and insights to evolving trends and community needs. Their
Nonprofits thrive on innovation and causes they believe in.
responsiveness to community needs. Board firsthand experiences as digital natives and Make younger board members feel
their commitment to social responsibility
valued and respected. Encourage open
members with diverse backgrounds bring HARNESSING ensure that nonprofits remain adaptable and dialogue, incorporate their ideas into
fresh perspectives that can enhance strategic SOCIAL MEDIA EXPERTISE
decision-making and broaden organizational impactful in a changing world. strategic discussions, and recognize their
reach. Millennials (born 1980-2000) and According to Classy data, 69% of next- contributions publicly.
Gen Z (born after 1995) embody these gen donors prefer communication through STRATEGIES FOR RECRUITING Recruiting Millennials and Gen Z to
YOUNGER BOARD MEMBERS
diverse perspectives, each with distinct social media. Younger board members are nonprofit boards isn’t just about tapping
qualities that enrich board dynamics and ideally positioned to leverage this channel
decision-making processes. effectively. They understand the nuances 1. PROACTIVE RECRUITMENT: into their technical skills or social media
prowess—it’s
their
about
embracing
of social media engagement, creating Actively seek out younger professionals and unique perspectives and commitment to
MILLENNIALS: TECH-SAVVY AND compelling content that resonates with community leaders who are passionate about social impact. By cultivating an inclusive
COMMUNITY-ORIENTED peers and supporters alike. Their familiarity your cause. Establishing junior leadership and forward-thinking board environment,
with platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and groups or mentorship programs can nurture nonprofits can unlock transformative
Millennials grew up as digital pioneers Twitter can significantly amplify nonprofit
amidst the rapid rise of technology and social messaging and fundraising efforts. potential board candidates. potential and ensure sustained relevance in
media. They are adept at leveraging digital HIGHLIGHT LEADERSHIP an ever-changing world.
platforms for communication, advocacy, and 2. DEVELOPMENT:
fundraising. This tech-savviness makes them
invaluable in crafting and executing effective
digital strategies that resonate with peers and Emphasize the skills and experiences board
supporters alike. Millennials prioritize work- members gain, such as governance best
practices and strategic planning. Provide
life balance, transparency, and meaningful opportunities for young leaders to contribute
engagement with organizations that align meaningfully and see their impact firsthand.
57 with their values. 58