I am sure we have all experimced that sense of frustration when some task or activity in your organistaion, that should have been simple, seems to have either taken far too long, involved far too many people and become far too complicated. Whether it is a regular or one off…
Talking to lots of different charities, I am often asked what one thing will help to raise the money they really need. Sadly, if there was one simple answer to that question, I would have written the book and retired on the proceeds by now! Of course, the reality is complex,…
I was recently asked to review a funding application, which reminded me of some of the complexities surrounding writing a successful bid, particularly in understanding what the donor really, really wants. So, with apologies to the Spice Girls, here are a few hints that may help you towards finding that perfect match…
I am sure I am not alone in recognising that sinking feeling when the inbox, paper mountain and flashing answer phone together threaten to overwhelm us with the sheer volume of things that we feel we have to get done. There is much that could be written about how to prevent this…
Would your organisation like some more money for the work you do? I suspect the answer is ‘of course we would’; but how do we ask for it? Too often we are just not very sure how to tell others about the great work we do or even asking them…
Does your organisation have a plan? Most do, however they describe it. If that is you, hopefully it is not just one that sits on the shelf, mentioned only in annual reports or grant applications, but it is also something that informs what you do and where you put your resources…
It may not be true that ‘all publicity is good publicity’, but most of the organsiations with whom I work have some fantastic stories to tell that would help to promote their work and encourage support, particularly in their local media. Too often, however, they don’t get heard. Here are just three…
I have just finished a phone call with a potential donor. No deal was done and no funding promised. In fact, we agreed that the best option would be to talk again in a few months, at which point we may get as far as me submitting an outline application. …
I love the beach. Whatever the season I find it one of the most relaxing places to be and I know, from the many people who I see there, that I am not alone. For me it is a great ‘thinking place’ with ideas or solutions seeming to come more easily during…
Whether they are joining as a new trustee / church council member, volunteer or supporter, most organisations want to welcome new people well, but it does not always happen. Here are some ideas on ways that might help smaller organisations to do it better.
