The Two Quick Wins Nonprofits Need to Kick-Start Strategic Communications

We can talk all day about how you need a long-term investment in communications if you want to see real results.

But there’s nothing like a quick win to get the ball rolling. To rally folks on your team. To prove that you need to make that long-term investment.

So we’re going to give you the advice you need to get that quick win.

Here are the top two things your nonprofit can do (right now!) in strategic communications to get your new year off to a great start.

The Problem Nonprofits Face in Getting Started With a Communications Investment

Nonprofits are almost always pressed for time and money.

We know because we’ve worked with so many incredible organizations. We’ve seen the hard work they do to earn every dollar they have. They want to put that money to use where it will make the most impact in the communities they serve.

We get it.

That’s why we believe investing in strategic communications is one of the smartest moves a nonprofit can make. A strong communications program strengthens your nonprofit’s impact by:

• Boosting fundraising efforts, service delivery, and awareness.
• Amplifying the effects of your work so you drive more people to action—whether that’s volunteering, attending an event, donating or advocating for your cause.
• Building trust in your brand for long-term success.

But to make it work, you need to spend effectively, get results that matter, and ensure every effort makes an impact.

So, where do you start?

We’ve got two things you can start doing right now that will get you outsize results.

Priority #1: Develop Your Message

Here’s what Julie always tells our partners: Your communications program is a house. And the foundation of that house? That’s your messaging.

You need that foundation if you want a long-term communications program. It has to be compelling, accurate and resonate with your audience. And, just as importantly, your team needs to buy into it and use it consistently.

Invest in your message. Take time to:

• Refine it.
• Get input from stakeholders.
• Work with a partner who can help you craft messaging that truly works.

This is the foundation of your house. A strong one lasts and lets you build up.

Priority #2: Start Your Story-Gathering Process

This is it, hands-down. If you make this a priority now, you’ll look back a year from now and be so grateful you did.

Your stories are the heartbeat of your nonprofit. Always, always, always collect stories.

A person or community impacted by your work. An example of a change in services or policy. A volunteer’s inspiring journey. A behind-the-scenes look at your operations. A challenge overcome.

These are the things people want to hear about.

Build a story-gathering process so that:

• Everyone knows how to share stories with your communications team.
• You capture the right details—contact information, key dates, context, and data—so nothing is lost.
• You’re consistently practicing ethical storytelling. What may be a “success story” for an organization could include a negative experience for the storyteller. If and how the story is shared needs to be mindful of that.
• There’s a variety of types of stories at hand, not only about the communities you serve but also about your organization’s staff and volunteers, recent accomplishments, etc.
• You’re consistently building a content library of compelling stories, even if you’re not ready to share them immediately.

Why These Two Priorities Matter

Messaging and storytelling go hand-in-hand to create an outsize impact for your nonprofit. Clear messaging keeps every communication focused and impactful. And a steady stream of stories keeps your mission alive in the hearts and minds of your audience.

Together, these two priorities motivate your supporters, build trust with your community, and make it possible to grow.

We’re passionate about helping organizations that do good to succeed. If you know a nonprofit or business in the D.C. area that needs communications support, let them know about us!

P.S. Big things are coming in 2025, and we can’t wait to share them with you! We’re launching an email newsletter packed with insights, tools and strategies for nonprofits and businesses that want to make a difference. Sign up now to stay in the loop: https://jrcommunications.com/newsletter/.