Having a smart marketing practice in place for your organization can influence the success of your fundraising and grant seeking effort. To learn more, we talked to Ceci Dadisman, a national expert on nonprofit marketing and communications.
Ceci is a celebrated speaker and trainer who travels the country to empower and inspire nonprofit leaders. Via tactical workshops and keynote addresses, she teaches organizations how to leverage communication strategies to engage donors, funders, and others, and to attract new supporters to the cause. As Digital Marketing Manager at FORM, an agency providing digital-first creative services for arts + culture and nonprofit organizations, Ceci creates and manages digital marketing campaign for clients nationwide.
Why do you choose to partner with nonprofit organizations?
I find that I do my most creative and impactful work when I care about the mission of an organization.
What’s the first step to effective marketing?
Start by determining the audience you want to reach. Then identify what messages will be most relevant to them and which channels will be most effective for delivering that message. I believe that every organization, no matter the budget level, has the ability to use communications to increase their awareness in the community and engage new funding partners.
What’s the most effective marketing channel for nonprofits?
Emails, social media, post cards, and appeal letters all provide opportunities for a donor or foundation to get to know your organization. Digital channels can be cost-effective, but be careful not to put all your eggs in one basket. Nothing is done in a vacuum – digital and traditional channels reinforce one other. Just because someone sends a donation in response to a mailed appeal letter, that doesn’t mean that they weren’t also influenced by your emails or social media posts.
How should nonprofits decide their marketing strategy?
Use real data to guide decisions rather than rely on anecdotal evidence or assumptions. “Our donors don’t use the internet” or “Foundation officers aren’t following us on social media” may feel true, but what evidence backs that up? Analyze your own data about your donors and find external resources that will give you context about your target audiences. This approach will ensure that your marketing strategy is well-informed.
What single piece of advice would you leave with nonprofits about marketing?
Just because your organization has always done something a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the most effective way. Don’t be afraid to try something new!
Learn more from Ceci about using communications and marketing to reach your target audiences, including funders, on her website or through FORM’s blog.
