In this final installment of Maintaining Relationships with Donors, let’s specify some ways to get more “up close and personal” with them.
One of the ways to do this is by trying to get their feedback. Who knows? They very well may have ideas that could be useful. You can ask for their input on things like upcoming events or opportunities they may be interested in.
Ask one question on Facebook and then a different question on Twitter. Asking questions on social media means that it’s entirely up to your followers to decide if they want to respond.
Some donors will value the opportunity to give their feedback and your willingness to reach out to them for suggestions may make them feel more connected to your organization. That’s the goal, isn’t it? If you get responses, remember, it’s very important to let your donors know you’re listening to what they have to say and that you value their input.
Ask Donors to Write Blog Posts
Since your donors have already decided your organization does something that’s worth supporting, provide them with the means to share their views by guest writing a post for your blog.
Potential topics:
Why they decided to give to your organization in the first place
A specific story of an interaction they’ve had with you
Their favorite event that you sponsor (and they’ve attended)
What makes your nonprofit different in their eyes
How your organization has personally impacted them
These kinds of posts will likely influence other donors and prospects. Plus, there’s a good chance they’ll forward a link on to friends and colleagues, which may broaden your reach.
Share Photos on Facebook
Personalize the impact you’re having in the community by sharing compelling photos. Use captions with the photos that thank donors. Make sure you’re not only thanking donors when they give, but are also doing so when their support has provided a tangible impact in the community.
There are many ways to Maintain Relationships with your donors. We’ve just scratched the surface. Please share with us strategies we haven’t mentioned.