Why Charities Need to Nail Their Networking
Hey there, Stacey Calder here! I’ve spent years helping charities raise their profile and grow their audience, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: Networking is an absolute game-changer for charities, especially for our small, local ones here in the UK.
Imagine being able to share your charity’s mission with more people, attract more volunteers, and even secure more funding. That’s the power of networking! Today, I’m going to share why networking is so vital for charities and give you my top three tips to help you become a networking superstar.
Why Should Charities Network?
Spread the Word
Networking helps you reach more people. The more people know about your cause, the more support you can gather.
Build Partnerships
Meet like-minded individuals and organisations who can support your mission. Collaboration often leads to amazing outcomes.
Access Resources
Whether it's funding, volunteers, or materials, networking opens doors to resources you might not find on your own.
Top Tips for Successful Networking
Know Your Story and Share It Passionately
Your charity’s story is unique. It's what sets you apart from others and what draws people to your cause. Whether you’re attending a local business event, a community meet-up, or even just chatting with someone at the market, be ready to share your story. Make it personal and passionate—people are more likely to remember you and your cause when they feel an emotional connection.
Tip: Prepare a short, engaging intro (often called a pitch). Keep it clear, concise, and compelling. Practice it until it feels natural.
Be Active in the Local Community
Your local community is your biggest ally. Attend local events, join community groups, and participate in local forums. The more visible you are, the more people will remember you. Don’t just show up—get involved. Offer to speak at events, volunteer your time, or host a workshop.
Tip: Use social media to stay updated on local events and happenings. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Nextdoor are great for finding out what’s going on in your community.
Follow Up and Stay Connected
Networking doesn’t stop when the event ends. Following up is crucial. Whether it’s a quick email, a thank-you note, or connecting on social media, make sure to follow up with the people you meet. Keeping the connection alive can lead to future collaborations and support.
Tip: Set aside time each week to follow up with new contacts. A simple message to check in can keep your charity at the forefront of their minds.
Types of Networking Available
Local Business Networks
Chambers of Commerce, Rotary Clubs, and business networking groups such as the Business Success Network are great places to meet potential supporters and partners.
Community Groups
Join local clubs, societies, and community groups. These are excellent platforms to raise awareness about your charity.
Online Networking
Don’t underestimate the power of social media and online forums. Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook Groups, and even X (Twitter) can be valuable networking tools. Networking might seem daunting at first, but it’s all about building relationships.
Remember, people want to help, and they need to know you to do so. So, get out there, share your story, and watch your charity thrive!
Happy networking!
Stacey Calder
Hope you found this helpful! If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out. Let’s make a difference together!
There are a number of ways you can get more support from Stacey. Join her Business Success Network - For Charities community or Contact her for one to one support.
