tips Archives - The TASC Group

Tips for Nonprofits During a Recession

March 30, 2024

Navigating a recession poses unique challenges for nonprofits, particularly in the realm of funding. Companies like Lehman Brothers and Merrill Lynch are recognized for large philanthropic donations to various charities, which many organizations depend on for increased revenue.

Whether you are relying on corporate fundraising or a specific donor, it’s important to diversify your fundraising strategies to ensure the strength of your organization during a recession.

Unfortunately, during a recession, many nonprofits’ programmatic needs increase. Since people and institutions have less disposable income, nonprofits receive fewer donations and struggle to keep their charity functioning. Each year most charities set new goals to raise more money than the previous year, but during a recessionary period, the goal should be to maintain at least the previous year’s funding, and at the same time cut expenses.

Why Is This Important?

Some charities make the mistake of relying on a single huge revenue source. Although large projected donations are wonderful, you never know when they could unexpectedly be cut short. It’s best to prepare for the worst-case scenario.

Making sure that one donor doesn’t represent more than 10% of your revenue provides more independence and financial security for an organization. Diversifying your funds and holding net reserves help to ensure that your nonprofit will survive regardless of the economy.

Although large corporate sponsorships and donations garner lots of publicity, it’s important to identify other means of receiving financial support.

Benefits of Connecting with Funders

With thousands of foundations in the US, many charities receive grants for programming through trusts. The largest in the country, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, gave away $2,011,675,000 in the fiscal year ending in 2007. Additionally, high net worth individuals, who are passionate about your cause, can provide pertinent funding.

It may surprise you, but according to Giving USA large donations, like the $2 million that Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt donated to the Global Health Committee, make up just 1.3% of overall donations. This means that 98.7% of funding comes from donors who give smaller, yet vital gifts. If your organization doesn’t already, you should implement a direct mail campaign to your supporters asking for donations.

Benefits of SEO and Website

Another way to gather support is by allowing people to give through your website.

The convenience of donating online often makes people more inclined to give. This is one of many reasons why bolstering SEO and your digital footprint is crucial for the success of your organization. The higher amount of media hits and media presence will attract more viewers to your website.

Although, gaining traction on your website is half the battle. Organizations must prove their credibility in order to appeal to donors. Media coverage is one avenue to amplify your message and to build trust among potential supporters. By strategically leveraging media opportunities, such as press releases, interviews, and features, you can effectively communicate your organization’s impact, achievements and ongoing initiatives to a wider audience. This heightened visibility enhances your reputation and encourages individuals to contribute to your cause.

Diversify and Strategize

In essence, the guiding principle for nonprofits navigating recessions hinges on strategic financial planning.

By diversifying funding sources, safeguarding against overreliance, and fortifying reserves, organizations empower themselves to withstand the economic ebb and flow. Embracing these strategies not only secures immediate survival but also charts a course toward sustainability, enabling nonprofits to continue their vital missions despite the unpredictable economic landscape.To learn more about how TASC can craft a strategy to appeal to future donors and amplify your organization’s reputation, check out our PR and Communications services.

Networking For Young PR Professionals

November 11, 2021

As we navigate the professional landscape in 2024, networking stands tall as an indispensable cornerstone in the journey of young professionals, especially in fields like public relations where its significance is particularly pronounced. The evolution of networking has mirrored the dynamic changes ushered in by the digital era, adapting to the demands of a technologically driven world. The act of establishing connections within the industry remains a linchpin, offering a myriad of advantages, from securing new client work to unveiling job opportunities, receiving referrals, finding mentors and gaining invaluable insider intelligence.

Recent statistics reinforce the pivotal role of networking, with a staggering 80% of job placements attributed to the strategic channels forged through professional connections.

Where to Get Started

Traditionally, events and conferences in public relations have been revered as prime arenas for networking, fostering meaningful connections through face-to-face interactions, especially as a young PR professional. However, the advent of the internet has transcended these physical boundaries, leading to a new era of online networking.

Platforms such as LinkedIn have emerged as powerful tools, reshaping the landscape and empowering young professionals to expand their reach exponentially. Cultivating an online network that spans past internship contacts, professors, employers and colleagues has become a strategic imperative. This paradigm shift is particularly evident in the job application process, where leveraging online networking by connecting with current employees provides nuanced insights into company culture, thereby amplifying the potential for a lasting impression during interviews.

Four Steps for Success

Navigating the intricacies of networking in 2024 is an art that demands strategic finesse. Preparedness remains the key, instilling confidence in interactions and fostering relationships organically. To capitalize on networking opportunities, these timeless tips continue to hold sway:

1. Make Authentic Connections

Creating lasting impressions remains the primary goal, with authenticity taking center stage. The emphasis lies in genuinely understanding and connecting with individuals beyond superficial exchanges. Identifying shared goals and interests remains crucial, laying the foundation for meaningful conversations that contribute to the development of a robust professional relationship.

2. Show What You Can Offer

While the immediate inclination may be to assert personal needs, the current strategy continues to emphasize showcasing what one can offer to others. This approach, rather than being overt about personal goals, establishes goodwill. Networking is viewed as a reciprocal and mutually beneficial exchange, where both parties contribute to each other’s success, creating a symbiotic professional ecosystem.

3. Let the Other Party Speak

Being armed with thoughtful questions demonstrates genuine interest in the other person’s work and experiences. Allowing the other party to share insights, advice and feedback contributes to a balanced and meaningful conversation. The significance of questions regarding their duration with the company, required training for the position, and the overall company culture remains, fostering engagement and enriching the networking experience.

4. Follow-Up

In the dynamic and crowded networking environment of 2024, differentiation is crucial. Following up after an initial meeting, whether through email or LinkedIn, retains its status as an effective strategy. This not only reinforces the connection but also provides an opportunity to express gratitude for the interaction and convey continued interest in maintaining the relationship. A thoughtful follow-up holds the power to leave a lasting impression, setting the stage for future collaboration or engagement in a fast-paced professional world.

The Value of a Good Network

In the contemporary professional landscape, building a robust network transcends the mere showcasing of skills; it involves creating a memorable and enduring presence within the industry. Confidence in one’s work, coupled with effective self-presentation, enhances the likelihood of establishing meaningful connections that stand the test of time. The development of a strong network remains a valuable asset, offering ongoing support, guidance and opportunities throughout one’s professional journey.

As a young PR professional in 2024, investing time and effort in networking continues to be a steadfast contributor to a fulfilling and successful career trajectory, unlocking doors to a world of possibilities and growth in an ever-evolving professional landscape.new client work, job opportunities, referrals, mentoring or having insider intel. In fact, a study conducted by The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics found that 85% of jobs are filled by networking!

The opportunity to network can happen at any PR event or conference, so make sure to take advantage of these moments when they present themselves. Aside from attending networking events in person, thanks to the internet you’re now able to network right from home! LinkedIn is one of the most popular sites when it comes to business networking; adding past internship contacts, professors, employers and colleagues can be a great start to building your online connections. If you’re interviewing for a job at a company, don’t be afraid to connect with one of their current employees and strike up a conversation on their experience with the company and what got them to their current position.

When networking it’s important to make yourself memorable. Being prepared can help you feel confident in your interactions and help relationships form naturally. Follow these tips:

Make authentic connections: Creating lasting impressions is the main goal. This will come easier if you take time to talk and get to know the person versus a brief chat. Try to see how you could both benefit from the connection and find shared goals and interests to strike up a conversation.

Show people what you can do for them: While you may be tempted to be forward about your intentions whether it is to land a job or an interview, offering your help instead will make them want to help you in return. Remember, networking should be mutually beneficial for both parties.

Let the other party speak: Make sure to come prepared with a few questions to ask the other party about their work/company. If you take over most of the conversation, you leave no room for them to share any advice, feedback or questions they may have for you. Asking questions like these can help the other person feel like you’re interested in what they have to say:
- How long have you been with the company?
- What type of training did you need for this position?
- How is the culture of the company?

Follow-up: The chances that the person you are trying to connect with is also being pursued by several other people are high. Especially at a networking event, it can be hard to keep track of who is who. Getting their email or connecting with them on LinkedIn and sending them a message shortly after you’ve met can help secure a lasting impression.

While your skillset is important, building a strong network of those in your field and making a name for yourself can be a huge advantage for your professional career down the road. Remember to be confident in your work and practice presenting yourself, and you’ll have no trouble gaining connections.