As a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), it is necessary to be visible towards other NGOs, Non-profit Organizations (NPOs), corporations, grant-funding agencies, philanthropists, and finally the public. Having trust and support from the public can go a long way, but how exactly is the public supposedly approached? In the past, before the social media age has arisen, it was enough for NGOs to visit schools, malls, offices, development institutions, and other areas to conduct fund-raising activities or to seek for sponsors and donations. Now that we are living in the digital age, the use of social media has been the norm for the majority of the world population who have access to the internet. Hence, this doesn’t mean that old trends should just fade and disappear. For them to get to know you better, learn to relate to the public – their likes and dislikes, and what would get them involved in your operations. Some of the best ways to be known by the public would be the following:
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Social Media
To reach a wide range of audiences, you have to be where they are. In this case, corporate funding for NGOs, donor agencies for NGOs, foreign funding agencies for NGOs, and funding organizations for NGOs can all be found in social media. For these agencies to notice you, you will need to have a huge following, and ideally for their followers to be sharing your posts. To achieve this, learn what types of posts would generally produce a numerous amount of shares. Generally, posting inspiring quotes that promote empowerment would catch the public’s attention. Thus, when posting the said quotes, also incorporate them with either the mission or vision of your NGO and what you have done so far throughout your operations.
Another thing that gets the public’s attention would be motivational stories about the people whose lives have changed with the help of the organization. Preferably, they would like to hear first-hand experiences. Normally, a captivating photo will get the attention of many social media users. However, getting their attention will not be enough. For viewers to continue reading a particular story, the contents should be well-crafted. Having your beneficiaries speak to your audience themselves would be effective because it’s more meaningful to hear something first-hand rather than a story relayed upon.
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Experience
Voluminous individuals these days have been keener in spending to make memories than material things. This is why more and more people nowadays travel as compared to previous generations. A large amount of the population is also willing to spend money on concerts, unique dining experiences, and athletic activities. Due to the demand on these things, try to engage in things that interest them.
Perhaps hosting a fund-raising tournament for those interested in sports can be effective as people will be doing what they do knowing that in a way or two, people will benefit from their attendance. Other ideas like inviting volunteers to participate in activities outside the city may also be effective. Just think of something fun and engaging which would attract not only those who’re already informed of your organization but to those with little to no involvement as well.
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Brand Participation
For a lot of people, online spending has become the norm. Apart from online shopping, ride-hailing applications like Uber, Lyft, and Grab also have a huge following. Given that online shopping and ride-hailing apps are visited by millions on a daily basis, try to close partnerships with these organizations. Providing an advertisement or promo code, email blasts, or the consumer’s option to donate points transformed into cash to your NGO would be a great way to earn revenue and gain more supporters.
Although the process of closing a partnership deal with large corporations can be a bit of a challenge, the possible success can bring about a turning point for your NGO. Hence, that would entail more beneficiaries who will be able to experience a better standard of living.
Trends inevitably come and go but that doesn’t mean old trends should be forgotten. Old trends may no longer be as effective as new ones but it doesn’t mean you should stop reaching out to those who have yet to get a grip of new trends. Creating a balance between new and old trends would be the key to maintaining and receiving public visibility.
