![Management Courses](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/management-courses.png)
Nonprofit Management And Staffing
Discover the art of strategic management and effective staffing in our collection of education videos–dedicated to the unique needs of nonprofits and NGO’s. Dive into crucial facets of successful executive leadership, exploring everything from team building and volunteer coordination to performance management and conflict resolution. These array of lessons, from Top Nonprofit Sector Experts, illuminate the complexities of managing a nonprofit, offering you actionable insights and practical tactics to elevate your organization. You’ll find ways to assemble a passionate team, who shares your mission, with in-depth guidance on cultivating a positive work culture, fostering employee engagement, and keeping your staff motivated, regardless of the challenges that arise.
![Modern Resume Strategies (In the nonprofit sector) Modern Resume Strategies (In the nonprofit sector)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/2t8vsmn4a60/4147799014.jpg)
This lively discussion is packed with insights and practical tips for job seekers looking to make a powerful impact with their resumes in today's digital landscape. Host Julia Patrick welcomes Katie Warnock, the visionary founder and CEO of Staffing Boutique, to explore the cutting-edge strategies for crafting resumes in the nonprofit sector.
Katie dives right into the seismic shift from traditional paper resumes to digital formats, shedding light on how this evolution is revolutionizing the job application process. "Digital resumes are huge," Katie declares, describing that while digital formats offer the flexibility to include more information, it’s crucial to keep resumes concise and focused. She advocates for limiting resumes to one or two pages, even in the digital realm, to maintain clarity and relevance.
Attention to detail is the theme as Katie shares her experiences with resume templates and the common pitfalls candidates encounter, such as inconsistent fonts and misaligned bullet points. "If you don't pay attention to detail on that, and then you have someone looking at your resume who is meticulous about detail, they are going to disregard your resume even if the fonts are different," she explains.
The conversation heats up as they tackle the controversial topic of headshots on resumes. While more common internationally, Katie advises against this practice in the U.S. nonprofit sector, citing potential discrimination and the unnecessary complexity it adds to applicant tracking systems. "There really shouldn't be a headshot," Katie says, championing rather a clean, straightforward format that prioritizes content over aesthetics.
The use of keywords and their pivotal role in the digital hiring process take center stage next. Katie explains how applicant tracking systems heavily rely on keywords to filter and sort resumes. She advises candidates to include specific terminology related to their field and relevant software skills to boost their visibility. "It's so important that the font and format come over correctly," she emphasizes, pointing to the need for resumes to be easily parsed by these digital scanning systems.
Katie also details the importance of having a physical copy of your resume for in-person interviews, even in this digital age. This preparedness not only demonstrates professionalism but also ensures that all interviewers can get a copy of the resume, especially in multi-person, and face-to-face, interview scenarios.
Keeping resumes current is another critical point Katie drives home. She urges job seekers to update their resumes regularly, listing new promotions, new skills, and volunteer experiences, which makes the resume a more dynamic document that reflects ongoing career progression.
For those grappling with resume creation, Katie suggests considering professional resume writing services. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who find it challenging to effectively articulate their experiences.
Katie insights during this engaging session offer a great guide for job seekers in the nonprofit sector, and highlights the nuances of modern resume strategies and the importance of aligning digital and physical presentations.
![Nonprofit Trends You Need To Know Now! Nonprofit Trends You Need To Know Now!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/1grpf6u6etq/2858700601.jpg)
A conversation exploring pressing financial trends and emerging challenges impacting the nonprofit sector, with Tanya Pal, Regional Director for Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), the nation's largest nonprofit accounting services firm.
Host Julia Patrick begins by briefly reflecting on her early experiences on a nonprofit board and the importance of understanding financial trend lines. This sets up the stage for a deep dive into the key trends facing nonprofits today.
One of the significant trends they discuss is the increasing importance of “trust in philanthropy”. Tanya cites a recent survey by the Independent Sector and Edelman Data & Intelligence, revealing that public trust in nonprofits has increased post-pandemic. The study emphasizes that "public trust is the currency of the nonprofit sector.", which points directly to the need for nonprofits to maintain transparency, adhere to ethical principles, and demonstrate the impact of donations. Tanya notes, "If you want to keep that trust and maintain that increase, nonprofits need to see continued greater financial transparency and adhere to best practices."
This fast-paced discussion then shifts to the evolving labor laws affecting nonprofits, specifically the recent changes to overtime rules. Tanya explains that new regulations from the U.S. Department of Labor are extending overtime protections, potentially impacting millions of workers. Nonprofits must adapt to these changes, ensuring compliance and preparing for potential financial implications.
Julia and Tanya also touch on updated IRS uniform guidance rules, highlighting adjustments that could significantly impact nonprofit financial management. These updates, aimed at improving transparency and reducing administrative burdens, reflect the changing nonprofit ecosystem post-COVID.
A particularly interesting topic is the rise of cryptocurrency donations. Tanya describes this as the "modern Wild West," noting that while crypto donations offer new opportunities, they also pose challenges related to donor anonymity and regulatory uncertainties. She shares, "The first recorded crypto donation in 2017 opened the door, and the space has grown significantly, with forecasts predicting it could reach $10 billion in the next decade."
Finally, the discussion addresses the sobering reality of nonprofits closing due to the end of COVID funding. Recent news highlights an organization, even one that received substantial funding, shuttering due to strategic missteps. Tanya emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and financial stewardship, stating, "Money is not the solution to everything; how you steward that money is just as important."
The session concludes with a call for nonprofits to stay informed about trends and prepare for future challenges. Tanya's insights provide valuable guidance for nonprofit leaders navigating the complex financial landscape. Learn more about YPTC.com. . . . . They support small to medium-sized nonprofits by managing their accounting and financial reporting needs, ensuring financial transparency and sound financial management.
![Using Disciplined Innovation at Nonprofits Using Disciplined Innovation at Nonprofits](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/L5wgvzholkm/2357853918.jpg)
A comprehensive overview of how nonprofits can innovate effectively by combining creativity with disciplined processes. By understanding and addressing core needs, fostering consensus, and maintaining a structured approach to innovation, nonprofits can overcome the challenges posed by a scarcity mindset and achieve sustainable growth and impact. Stewart Severino, the Head of Innovation at The Navigators, discusses the concept of "disciplined innovation" in the nonprofit sector.
Co-host Julia Patrick opens the conversation by expressing her enthusiasm about discussing disciplined innovation, emphasizing how important it is for nonprofits to balance creativity with structured processes. Stewart shares his background from the for-profit sector to the nonprofit world and highlights the similarities in challenges both sectors face. He notes, “The nonprofit sector is currently grappling with inefficiencies and a scarcity mindset that limits their potential impact.”
One of the key points Stewart makes is the prevalence of a scarcity mindset among nonprofits, which often leads to a reluctance to take risks. This mindset, he argues, hampers innovation. Co-host Tony Beall echoes this sentiment, stating, “Nonprofits are not risk takers, and when you think of innovation, you think of the need to be able to take risks in order to test innovation.”, which is a problem for many nonprofits: the fear of failure and the perceived lack of resources to experiment and innovate.
Stewart also emphasizes the value of understanding the core needs of the target audience. He explains that many nonprofit initiatives fail because they do not accurately identify or agree on the core needs they aim to address. This lack of consensus can lead to wasted resources and ineffective solutions. He puts it this way, saying, “We cannot afford to sustain throwing things against the wall and seeing what sticks. It’s just not a good financial stewardship move.”
This lively conversation then shifts to practical strategies for fostering disciplined innovation. Stewart suggests a structured approach beginning with some research to identify the core needs, followed by ideation and brainstorming, and finally, testing and refining the developed solutions. This disciplined process ensures that innovations are not only creative but also practical and sustainable.
This session amplifies on the need for a clear, concise understanding of the organization's mission and the specific needs it aims to meet. Stewart gives us a valuable framework for achieving this consensus, using what he terms a "job statement," which clearly defines the verb, object, and clarifying statement of the organization's mission. This framework helps ensure that all team members are aligned and working towards the same goals. Watch and learn more!
![Development Directors; 19 Months and Gone! Development Directors; 19 Months and Gone!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/E2vrytndeza/1864813878.jpg)
The pressing issue within the nonprofit sector: why Development Directors often leave their positions after an average of just 19 months. The conversation, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall, is both eye opening and spirited, deliberating about the various factors contributing to this high turnover rate and offering practical solutions to improve retention.
Tony Beall, known for his expertise and passion in nonprofit consultancy, shares that one of the main reasons for this rapid turnover is the lack of adequate resources and support provided to Development Directors. He emphasizes that organizations often bring in fundraising professionals without equipping them with the necessary tools, such as up-to-date technology and sufficient budgets for travel and networking. This lack of support can lead to frustration and burnout, pushing talented individuals to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Julia echoes Tony's concerns and highlights an often-overlooked aspect: the time it takes for a new employee to fully integrate into a role. She recalls an HR expert's insight that it typically takes about 12 months for someone to acclimate to a new job, learning the organization's culture, processes, and expectations. If Development Directors are leaving shortly after this period, it means they barely have enough time to make a significant impact before moving on, which can be detrimental to the organization's stability and growth.
![Creating Nonprofit 'Go To' Volunteers! Creating Nonprofit 'Go To' Volunteers!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Brt7cqkszba/3995011455.jpg)
The importance of volunteers in your nonprofit’s ecosystem with specific actionable insights for organizations to better manage and nurture their volunteers. An informative chat with Jared Throneberry from Bloomerang. By valuing volunteers' contributions and strategically engaging them, nonprofits can build a loyal and motivated volunteer base that is crucial for their success.
Jared shares his unique journey from an IT and business analyst background to his current role at Bloomerang, and shares his insights into volunteer management highlighting the need for strategic engagement and thoughtful placement of volunteers.
One key Jared emphasizes is the importance of matching the right volunteer with the right task. He illustrates this with an example from his experience: "If a volunteer doesn't feel like they're being useful or helpful in a particular area, it's probably because that's the thing they don't need to be doing. You need to find the other person who enjoys that, that will enjoy and appreciate it." This approach ensures that tasks are completed efficiently and fosters a sense of fulfillment and purpose among volunteers, plus it encourages them to return and remain engaged.
With host Julia Patrick, the two dig into the often-overlooked aspect of treating volunteers with the same respect and appreciation as donors. Jared notes, "Thank you for donating your time and your energy. You're helping to support our mission." This mindset shift from seeing volunteers as free labor to recognizing them as integral parts of the mission is vital for building long-term relationships and encouraging repeat volunteerism.
Continuing, Jared shares practical strategies for engaging volunteers, such as providing impactful feedback and showing appreciation through follow-up communication. He recounts a memorable volunteering experience with a customer who provided shower systems for homeless populations. The experience was enriched by a pre-volunteering briefing that detailed the mission and impact of the work, followed by hands-on, gritty tasks like cleaning showers. Despite the nature of the work, the thorough orientation and clear communication of the mission made it a fulfilling experience for Jared and his colleagues.
Julia highlights the parallel between customer retention in the business world and volunteer retention in nonprofits. Just as restaurants thrive on repeat customers, nonprofits must cultivate long-term relationships with volunteers. Jared suggested simple yet effective practices like sending personalized follow-up surveys and sharing the tangible impacts of volunteer efforts to keep the engagement strong. If your nonprofit finds volunteer support and management challenging, this is a great primer for you!!!
![Investigating The Nonprofits Of Professional Athletes Investigating The Nonprofits Of Professional Athletes](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Hpwf0w6cl0/339478662.jpg)
Award-winning sports reporter Jason Wolf sheds light on the intricate and often misunderstood world of professional athletes and their nonprofit organizations. Wolf, known for his investigative prowess with the Arizona Republic and the USA TODAY Network, describes his findings in the mismanagement and inefficiencies that plague many athlete-founded charities, despite the athletes' noble intentions.
Wolf's journey into this niche field began serendipitously while covering star NFL player Delaney Walker. He recalls, “I had known enough to know that 990 is that the federal tax returns were public records and that I could get my hands on them. But once I printed them out, I had no idea what I was looking for.”, which marked the start of his deep look into the financial and operational workings of nonprofits, culminating in a groundbreaking series of reports.
His investigation, notably the “Mismanagement of the Year” project, scrutinized the nonprofits founded by Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award winners. This prestigious award, given annually since 1970, recognizes NFL players for their philanthropy and community service. Wolf explains, “My investigation into the efficiency of the nonprofits founded by these esteemed men reveals that many of them are far more inefficient than even the athletes themselves realize.”
The investigation uncovered alarming trends, such as significant portions of donated funds being consumed by administrative costs rather than directly supporting charitable causes. Wolf shared a startling example: “My investigation in Buffalo showed that the for-profit nonprofit management company that ran Andy Dalton's nonprofit was contractually entitled to... a quarter of every dollar donated. So when Bills fans donated it was $442,000 to Andy Dalton's nonprofit. This for-profit company took 100 grand off the top.”
The primary issue, according to Wolf, is the involvement of marketers rather than nonprofit professionals in managing these charities. This is resulting in poor financial oversight and operational inefficiencies. Wolf’s findings have garnered numerous accolades and have sparked meaningful changes within the sports philanthropy landscape.
One of the most impactful outcomes of his work is the formation of Sport for Impact, co-founded by former NFL star Anquan Boldin. This organization aims to educate players and their families about responsible sports philanthropy. Wolf proudly comments, “The most wonderful thing that has come out of this work has been Anquan Boldin co-founding Sport for Impact... the Jacksonville Jaguars are the first NFL team to provide them with a grant.”
Because of his thorough investigations and dedication to uncovering the truth, Jason Wolf has illuminated the need for greater transparency and efficiency in athlete-run nonprofits. His work continues to inspire change, urging athletes to adopt best practices and ensure that their charitable endeavors truly benefit those in need.
![Strengthening Nonprofit Leadership Strengthening Nonprofit Leadership](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Qto6x9ceyfq/1014034114.jpg)
From the author of "Aha Moments: Unlocking the Secrets of Effective Nonprofit Leadership.", discover key strategies for strengthening nonprofit leadership, tackling challenges in board governance, staff development, and innovative fundraising. Michael D. Dozier's extensive experience managing large organizations will five you actionable insights to inspire and lead your nonprofit team effectively.
Michael shares his journey from leading large organizations managing a staff of over 300 with a budget of $14 million, providing a rich backdrop for the conversation. He begins with emphasizing the importance of leadership development and fundraising as critical areas for nonprofit success. "One thing that motivated me to write this book was the variety of challenges nonprofit leaders face, from board governance issues to staff development," Michael explains. "Sharing practical tips can help others avoid the mistakes I made and navigate their paths more smoothly."
With host Julia Patrick, the two dig into the evolution of nonprofit management resources. Reflecting on the past, Michael notes, "When I started, there weren't many resources available. It was a baptism by fire. Nowadays, leaders have access to so much more information and training opportunities." This access to resources is a game-changer for current and future nonprofit leaders.
![The 360 Approach To Nonprofit Management The 360 Approach To Nonprofit Management](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Awtalngstxc/349843297.jpg)
The 360-degree approach to nonprofit management. Erin McPartlin teaches us about nonprofit’s capacity building, strategic planning, and leadership development, from the useful lens of understanding all aspects of an organization. You’ll discover how Erin's comprehensive view fosters holistic leadership and better nonprofit management.
"Being a 360 leader is about understanding all of the different aspects and components of your organization," Erin begins. She highlights the necessity for leaders to possess a comprehensive view, even if they are not experts in every area. This perspective enables them to see how various parts of the organization impact each other, fostering a holistic approach to leadership. "It's not about being the person with every single answer," she continues, "it's asking, listening, and hearing, but also knowing that everything is going to have to flow through you."
Erin’s concept of 360 leadership originates from a memorable strategic planning session where she physically stands in the middle of a circle of stakeholders, orchestrating discussions and decisions. This metaphorical and literal positioning helps her realize the significance of having a panoramic view of the organization’s operations and challenges. She recounts, "You said, you know, not just physically, that you're standing in the middle of the circle, but that you have this ability to see how this side affects that side and how the board sees that and how the staff sees that."
A pivotal theme in Erin’s discussion with co-hosts Julia Patrick and Sherry Quam Taylor is the balance between macro and micromanagement. She cautions against the assumption that hiring experts absolves leaders of their responsibilities. Instead, leaders must have a clear understanding of what success looks like in each area to effectively guide their teams. "You don't want to micromanage," Erin advises, "but you need to macro manage so you understand all those different components that go into what success looks like for your organization."
Erin’s insights into nonprofit management are both inspiring and practical. Her emphasis on the 360-degree approach focuses on the importance of a well-rounded perspective, continuous learning, and strategic foresight in nonprofit leadership. Erin’s consultancy focuses on enhancing relationships between board chairs and CEOs.
![Are You An Authentic Leader? Are You An Authentic Leader?](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/9byye58qbwo/3225290049.jpg)
In nonprofit leadership, authenticity stands as a pillar for effective and transformative management. This is the crux of the engaging conversation with Jackie Davidoff, a principal at Davidoff Strategy. The dialogue offers deep insights into the nuances of authentic leadership within the nonprofit sector, emphasizing continuous self-improvement and emotional intelligence.
Jackie, based in Chicago but working nationally, begins by outlining her firm's mission: helping organizations realize their untapped potential. She emphasizes, “We believe that all organizations have more capacity and we work in the nonprofit sector because there are so many missions that matter deeply to a lot of people and communities.” This belief forms the foundation of her approach to leadership development, which she describes as a journey rather than a fixed destination.
Authentic leadership, according to Jacki, involves an ongoing process of self-awareness and deliberate action. She challenges the conventional understanding of authenticity as a static trait, suggesting instead that it is about making conscious choices in the moment. She offers “Leadership development is a moment-to-moment choice, making choices in the moment. As I said before, watching yourself start to want to say something in a meeting and shut it down because what if you don’t say it right.” as she emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and adaptability in leadership.
![Answering Nonprofit's Questions Answering Nonprofit's Questions](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Akr3mjn0wio/2523882024.jpg)
Answering nonprofit’s questions on how collaboration within the nonprofit sector can amplify impact, insights into working with military organizations, the challenges of compensating nonprofit board members and a few innovative solutions for maximizing year-end donations.
![Nonprofits And Hiring Temp Labor Nonprofits And Hiring Temp Labor](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Rpvswnmhgq4/686677621.jpg)
A timely update about the current role of temporary labor in the nonprofit sector, detailing the operational complexities and significant impact of nonprofit staffing, with the CEO of Staffing Boutique. Katie Warnock, deeply entrenched in nonprofit staffing since 2005, shares her sage views on the demands and benefits of temporary staffing, which includes roles such as grant writers, development assistants, and event coordinators.
Katie opens up about her professional journey, saying, "I love doing staffing. . . . I've paved my way making a business out of doing temp and temp to perm recruitment for the sector specifically," explaining her commitment and specialized focus.
The fast-paced interview covers current trends in the labor market, with Katie observing, "I think we're very steady. I think that a lot of organizations are holding steady," which suggests a stable yet cautious approach in the context of an election year. She also notes the growing demand for flexible work arrangements, explaining that today’s job seekers prioritize positions that accommodate their lifestyle, including opportunities for remote work.
Katie addresses a significant gap in public awareness regarding the nonprofit sector's viability as a professional path. She points to the lack of general knowledge about the diversity of professional roles within nonprofits, beyond volunteer positions, stressing the importance of increasing exposure and education about the sector.
Katie also talks about the operational specifics of the staffing business, explaining how her firm can rapidly meet staffing needs, often activating placements within 24 hours. This capability highlights the agility and critical nature of specialized staffing agencies in the nonprofit world.
![Nonprofit's Questions This Week! Nonprofit's Questions This Week!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Tkzrxrf5djo/830545004.jpg)
Practical tips for nonprofits on addressing outdated information, integrating board members into fundraising, managing remote teams, and the importance of board succession planning, with the helpful insights from Muhi Khwaja, CFRE and trainer from Fundraising Academy.
--Addressing Outdated Information in Presentations--
A nonprofit professional asks how to manage a situation where a CEO presented outdated and incorrect data. Muhi begins his response by emphasizing the importance of having updated talking points and literature. He suggests that marketing departments should create and regularly update a pitch deck with current statistics. Muhi also advises providing updated information electronically to correct any mistakes without embarrassing the CEO.
--Integrating Board Members in Fundraising--
Another question comes from a CEO who wants to involve a passionate board member in fundraising, despite resistance from the development department. Muhi stresses that board members are integral to fundraising and should not be seen as outsiders. He advocates for development teams to work closely with CEOs to engage board members in fundraising, whether through thank-you calls, grant meetings, or personal donor visits. This integration can be managed effectively by having a development committee that includes board members.
--Managing a Work-From-Anywhere Team--
Pat from Flagstaff, AZ, sought advice on managing a team spread across different time zones. Muhi shares his experience with a work-from-anywhere (WFA) structure, emphasizing the importance of scheduled meetings, time management tools like Calendly, and communication platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Slack. He highlights the flexibility and productivity benefits of WFA, saying that organizations should find a cadence that works for them and allow their teams to balance work and personal lives effectively.
--Importance of Board Chair-Elect Positions---
Robert from Omaha, NE, asked about the necessity of having a board chair-elect. Muhi supports the idea, noting that having an elect position helps with continuity and ensures smooth transitions. He recommends updating bylaws to reflect this policy and having job descriptions to distinguish between the roles of the current chair and the chair-elect. This approach helps in maintaining organizational knowledge and stability.
--Professional Development and CFRE Training--
Muhi and Julia discuss a recent initiative where they launched the first Muslim CFRE study group, in partnership with CFRE and AFP Global. This initiative aims to provide professional development opportunities for Muslim fundraisers, with plans to continue this annually.
![Turning To Consulting Practices Turning To Consulting Practices](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/W74e1shk2zo/3283028522.jpg)
Guest Julia Devine shares her unique journey and perspectives on navigating the nonprofit sector and transitioning to a consulting practice.
As with many in the nonprofit sector, Julia's shift to consulting was influenced by the desire for greater flexibility and reduced stress. This led her and a colleague to found their consulting firm, leveraging their deep sector knowledge to aid nonprofit professionals in adapting to new working modalities.
Host Meico Marquette Whitlock shares surprise from the significant statistic that 74% of nonprofit employees are considering job changes, underscoring a widespread desire for better work conditions and alternatives to traditional roles. Julia attributedsthis trend partly to the seismic shifts in work dynamics brought about by the pandemic, which have reshaped expectations around flexibility and remote work.
Julia continues by emphasizing the potential of consulting as a strategic career move for nonprofit professionals seeking autonomy. She notes that consulting could provide a more satisfying work-life balance while still contributing significantly to the sector. Moreover, Julia advises that nonprofits can benefit from engaging consultants to optimize resource allocation and harness specialized skills without the overhead associated with full-time positions.
Julia’s message is that with a mutual benefit structure for both nonprofits and potential consultants: organizations can achieve more with specialized, flexible talent, and professionals can find fulfillment and balance by defining their work terms. Julia's story is a great example of how adaptive strategies and openness to non-traditional roles can enrich both individual careers and the nonprofit sector at large.
![Nonprofit's Questions of the Week Nonprofit's Questions of the Week](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Zd73uw8z4ye/3384347752.jpg)
Hosted by Meico Marquette Whitlock and featuring guest host Muhi Khwaja from the Fundraising Academy at National University, a series of pertinent questions from nonprofit professionals across the USA are addressed. The session begins with a discussion about managing underperforming board members, prompted by a nonprofit dealing with a board member who fails to attend meetings and meet fundraising obligations. Khwaja emphasizes the importance of initial conversations to understand the underlying reasons for the board member’s lack of participation before taking any steps to potentially remove them. Whitlock supports this by highlighting the value of dialogue to prevent making assumptions about the individual’s circumstances and to clarify expectations.
Another query involves setting personal fundraising goals and understanding donor attrition. Khwaja provides insights on calculating donor loss and stresses the importance of using historical data to anticipate and mitigate donor attrition. Whitlock adds the perspective of seeking advice and strategies from peers in similar roles to better manage and utilize such data.
The discussion also touches on managing pro bono services from a mid-size ad agency, with concerns about the potential lack of commitment due to the non-financial nature of the contract. Both hosts suggest establishing clear expectations and regular communication to ensure accountability and effective collaboration. They advise being proactive in managing the relationship to ensure the nonprofit remains a priority for the agency.
Lastly, the hosts tackle a question from Rafael in San Diego about allocating a budget for personal development to retain employees. Khwaja proposes that employees decide if and how they want to use their development funds, suggesting that unused funds could be pooled for others to use. Whitlock recommends that nonprofits first assess what their employees truly need and want before implementing such programs, to ensure the funds are used effectively and align with the organization’s goals.
![Answering Nonprofit's Questions! Answering Nonprofit's Questions!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/05/Ysn_qt94yww/1083719046.jpg)
In response to questions from nonprofits across the country, from Fundraising Academy, LaShonda Williams CFRE, provides nuanced insights into managing nonprofit boards, aligning donor management strategies with organizational goals, and some best practices toward the involvement of high-level executives in fundraising efforts. Her wise responses offer savvy guidance on maintaining integrity and strategic focus for those involved in nonprofit management.
Addressing a query from Colorado Springs about the appropriateness of personal questions in a board diversity questionnaire, LaShonda emphasizes the value of aligning these types of inquiries with the organization's mission and goals. She suggests that discomfort with the questions should prompt a deeper discussion about the true meaning and necessity of diversity within the board.
LaShonda, with the help of host Tony Beall, respond to a viewer from Omaha, who was concerned about managing a donor portfolio that didn't feel like the right fit for her. LaShonda advises involving potentially more suitable colleagues in meetings to better assess and cultivate relationships, thereby emphasizing the core role of relationship-building in fundraising. She keys in on the importance of collaborative efforts which can help the management of donor relationships too.
LaShonda and Tony respond to an interesting question about involving CEOs in donor meetings, pointing out the need to strategically use the CEO's time, especially concerning large gifts. LaShonda goes on to propose setting thresholds for CEO involvement based on the organization’s definition of major and principal gifts and suggests that alternative representatives like board members could also effectively engage major donors.
You’ll get alot out of this rapid-fire session addressing worries and issues nonprofits are experiencing.