03/28/2022
You are a Library of Inspiration.
Your nonprofit is an infinite library of stories that could inspire people to take action and unless you have been living in Mars for the past 15 years, you already know that storytelling is essential to your nonprofit toolbox. Communications, marketing and fundraising teams have become master storytellers. It’s time to turn the microphone around and let your die-hard fans become passionate spokespeople for your organizations.
Cruz On Camera’s approach to creating relevant, powerful and inspirational stories will always have this question in mind, “Will this story create citizen storytelling?” When a story is well told, it mobilizes your listeners to share it with their inner and outer circles. These stories provide a way to engage deeply with your audience. It also improves your brand authenticity, which is essential for any organization to thrive. It provides a way to engage more deeply with your best constituents.
Here are five steps your nonprofit could take to make your stories mobilize others to share and give:
1. Create a list of all the powerful stories of 2021.
2. Identify two to three messages you would like to convey about your organization (example: trustworthy, reliable, resourceful, etc).
3. Identify your target audiences and match the stories with the appropriate messages.
4. Pick your top 4 stories and create articles or videos.
5. Create a marketing plan to share these stories through your social media platforms, donor email blasts, events etc. Be sure to invest money in your ads.
BONUS: Be sure to involve your staff. Develop systems for them to share stories they’ve heard or experienced working for your organization. Bounce your top 4 stories with them through an internal email or organization meeting.
Remember, when you turn the microphone around and let others talk about your organization, you won’t always get perfect stories. But, in the end, these citizen storytellers can help bring your nonprofit to life in new ways that inspire trust and support.