The new year is a good time to think through processes, objectives and goals for for-profits and nonprofits alike. Here are some items to think about as we head into the new year.
1. Is your organization's mission statement still relevant? Review your organization’s mission statement. Is it still relevant?Are the bulk of your organization’s actions fulfilling the mission statement? If not, what’s taking energy and focus away from your nonprofit’s mission? What aspects of your mission does your organization fulfill? And where is there room for improvement?
2. How do you measure results? How does your organization use data to measure the effectiveness of your employees, of your marketing and PR efforts, of your programs and services? If your data reveals that your efforts, staff, marketing or PR efforts are not effective, what can you learn from this? And how can your organization move forward to be more successful?
3. How does your nonprofit use social media? Marketers love to talk about the importance of social media, but it’s only important if you’re attaching specific objectives to the actions and those objectives are being met. What is your nonprofit’s objectives for social media use? Increase mailing list? Promote awareness of your cause, your programs and services? Create an engaged online community? Most likely, all of them, but it’s good to note which efforts you are using to accomplish which objectives – and if they’re meeting them. And if they’re not, it’s time to try something different
4. Is your organization tapping into free resources and tools for nonprofits? More and more businesses are offering discounted and free products and services to nonprofits? Does your organization tap into these free or reduced tools?
5. Are there any new businesses within your nonprofit’s neighborhood? Creating relationships with local businesses can help your nonprofit gain a wider audience and provide powerful partnerships. Tap into local businesses to help with events, gain volunteers and create overall support and awareness for your programs and services.
