Make It Transparent
Transparency is important among donors. And more than other generations, Generation X and Millennials like to see proof of their donations being put to good use and the impact they are making toward the organization.
Using social media is a great way to demonstrate transparency. Here are a few ways in which you can do so:
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- Livestreaming and short videos
Authentic videos or your work in action allow donors and potential donors to get a behind-the-scenes look into your organization. This makes them feel included, and the content can also create empathy. - Dollars raised into tangible amounts
Instead of just stating the dollar amount that was raised, turn it into something tangible that people will understand. For example, donors like to read about how their contributions to the overall goal helped to “give meals to 2,000 people” or the “46 gifts of $100 each provided bedding and hygiene supplies for one month to 46 people.” - Visuals
Everyone likes to look at a great photo. Writing a post may demonstrate transparency and validity, but like the saying goes, “a picture is worth 1,000 words.” Show photos of those you serve as well.
- Livestreaming and short videos
We see many organizations utilizing social media to show transparency and promote their organization, but their posts lack variety. Don’t post the same topics over and over again. For example, if you only post pictures of volunteers packing meals for the homeless or of fundraising events, your audience is going to think that is all your organization does. When you start to post a variety of content throughout a page, you are showing your audience impact and that the organization is making a difference in more ways than just one. It offers more insight into your mission, vision and values.
If there is no variety, you will lose followers, traffic and possibly people being involved with your organization overall. When you post, keep variety in mind. Instead of a volunteer in an assembly line packing meals for the homeless again, post a picture of a family that received one of those meals. Next time, maybe you show a truck full of boxed meals, explaining your distribution. After that, maybe it’s the driver of the truck who is proud to be part of your organization. All of these better tell your story of true impact.