“Getting the Word Out: Proven Strategies for Promoting Your Work”
November 14, 2013
You know the old expression, “What if you threw a party and nobody came?” Well, what if you offer the best services around, but nobody knows about them?
On November 14th, the Association of Nonprofit Specialists (ANS) hosted Getting the Word Out: Proven Strategies for Promoting Your Work, to help audience members avoid this reality.
Moderated by ANS board member Ben Roman, this panel discussion held at the Foundation Center included Howard Levy of Red Rooster Group, Janet Falk of Falk Communications & Research, and Marc Halpert of connect2collaborate. The panelists discussed their experiences with nonprofit marketing, branding, and public relations, and fielded questions from the moderator and audience about social media, print publications, online marketing, and traditional media outlets.
Some key take-aways:
- Evaluate your big-picture goals before embarking on a marketing campaign
- Be realistic – address limitations of staff, budget, and time
- Don’t feel like you have to do it all – focus on what you can do consistently and best
Another important point made by all and summarized here by Janet Falk – “Remember that you are in the YOU business. You are the one who will promote your services and your successes. No one else will do that for you. Make time in your day to reach out and connect with your contacts, by phone, by emailing an article in the news, by building your LinkedIn network and by writing and sending an enewsletter.”
Feedback provided on the post-session evaluations suggested these messages were well-received by attendees. Comments included: “Great tips and suggestions!” “Engaging speakers, great moderator.” “More info than I could ever expect!”
The panelists were equally excited about the experience, as summarized by Marc Halpert – “I am only too glad to help ANS in its mission to bring nonprofit consultants, and the sector as a whole, to a higher level.”
ANS will continue offering educational programs like this one in 2014, so keep an eye out for event announcements. In the meantime, we would like thank Howard Levy, Janet Falk, and Marc Halpert for sharing their time and expertise.
