The COVID-19 pandemic has made things difficult for nonprofits. Many nonprofits report a devastating drop in income from fundraising efforts and government programs. While the situation is difficult for larger nonprofits, it’s even more challenging for smaller nonprofits with fewer resources.
If you run a small nonprofit, you may need to think outside the box to help your organization survive until the economic climate improves. Here are some tips that can help you manage your small nonprofit during the pandemic:
Trust Your Team and Delegate
Nonprofit leaders are known to take a hands-on approach. After all, most nonprofits are led by people who started the organization, so it’s personal. However, now is the time to identify trusted and reliable members of your team and delegate responsibility.
While it may feel unnatural to share responsibility, your experienced team members can run your nonprofit smoothly. Meanwhile, you can use the extra time to enhance engagement efforts with donors and focus on short-term and long-term strategies until the crisis comes to an end.
Use Technology
Take advantage of cutting-edge constituent relationship management tools that use the best nonprofit database software to manage your organization productively from the comfort of your laptop.
Remember, the right nonprofit Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) software is cost-effective to use — the base version should be free to use, while the enhanced version should also be affordable. The best CRM software is also scalable, so only pay for the options pertinent to your small nonprofit.
Aside from CRM software, take your nonprofit to the next level by embracing digital media platforms. Enhance your YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok to reach more potential donors and volunteers. With the right technology, your nonprofit can gain more resources to help with the management.
Avoid Burnout
Many people who run nonprofits are at risk of burnout because they play such a pivotal role in their organizations. With resources running thin during a crisis, it’s easy for nonprofit leaders to take on too much.
Research upon research says that multitasking is counterproductive. After a certain point, our bodies simply stop performing activities effectively, resulting in more mistakes. It’s critical to take time out to eat, exercise, and sleep — your batteries need to be recharged every day in order for you to manage your nonprofit successfully.
Draw Boundaries
It’s easier to accept all challenges and tasks when the economic environment is right. However, in unprecedented times, you must learn to draw boundaries. Stick to your nonprofit’s core goals and don’t overburden your organization. For example, if you run an animal welfare charity, then focus on those under your care until you have the resources to accept more.
Learn from Your Mentors
Some nonprofit leaders feel isolated when they don’t have peers within their organizations. However, you can reach out to your mentors for help and advice with management. From their expertise, you can gain valuable insight and even boost your morale.
Although managing a small nonprofit can be difficult currently, you can make the task easier by taking care of yourself, delegating, and using the right CRM software.
