Driving Participation Podcast: What Is Working in Marketing & Fundraising | Nonprofits | Schools | Associations

LinkedIn has evolved tremendously over the last couple of years, transforming from a social network tool to an expansive platform for managing professional connections and branding. There are many opportunities on LinkedIn that enable organizations and nonprofits to effectively reach their targets: from developing a strong network of professionals to utilizing board members and discussions to increase participation. This week, Brynne Tillman, CEO of Social Sales Link joined Beth to discuss leveraging LinkedIn for business development and communication opportunities.

One of the interesting things that is happening with mobile computing is it's changing the overall dynamic of how we consume the web. 73% of all mobile searches trigger follow-up actions, which means having a mobile-friendly site is more important than ever before. Mobile devices are quickly becoming the go-to for work and communication, changing how organizations deliver data and drive action. This week, mobile strategist, Chris Ferdinandi joined Beth to discuss how nonprofits can tailor communications for mobile viewing and increased interaction.

Organizations are increasingly making the move to digital– transforming printed publications and annual reports into interactive online content that drives action. Video is well on its way to become the star of content marketing, with its shareability and mobile components. This week, Elin Barton, CEO of White Knight Productions joined Beth to discuss repurposing marketing materials to drive engagement and participation.

What does it mean to collaborate, and what role does collaboration play in nonprofit management? This week, Denise Hayman-Loa, CEO of Carii joined Beth to discuss audience-focused creation within a network.

Content marketing is a powerful way to spread your organization's message. By taking on a strategic approach to creating and distributing content, you can attract, educate and inspire your participants, all while increasing fundraising. This week, Claire Axelrad, of Clairfication joined the Driving Participation podcast to unveil how to utilize content marketing to master online social fundraising.

It's no secret that volunteers are an essential part of all associations and nonprofits. They add value to your organization, bringing forth their ideas, energy and expertise. But what exactly does it take to keep volunteers? This week, Rob Wenger, CEO of Higher Logic joined the Driving Participation Podcast to explain the process of transforming volunteering into a rewarding member benefit. Rob analzyed volunteer best practices to find that recognition and access are the best ways to retain members for life.

I hope you had a terrific year. Mine was very interesting with some great events, opportunities and challenges. I have a million ideas and things I want to accomplish in 2016 and it can be hard to stay focused--even for someone who teaches that. So I asked nonprofit marketers to share their resolutions for the new year. Are these on your list?

Whenever an organization reevaluates itself or starts a new initiative, it can be confusing as to where and how to start. This week Meredith Low, joins us to examine the differences between strategic, tactical and operational resources within an organization. Meredith, an experienced management consultant at Meredith Low Consulting, works with organizations to understand how, when, and where to grow in the context of fast-changing environments. Meredith touches on the difference between tactical and strategic planning, and how both work in tandem for your organization.

This week, Amie Simpson, Assistant Director at Temple University, joins us to share how her team was able to transform a national campaign to fit around Temple's needs, turning Giving Tuesday into Giving "TUesday." Amie focused on creating a sense of togetherness among Temple alumni by sparking an everyday conversation using simple, image-based content throughout different social media platforms. By doing so, she was able to tailor the campaign to drive engagement and increase participation among alumni.

This week we hear another story of life after rebranding. The YMCA is a national brand with a decidedly local sense of independence. Rebranding when hundreds of organizations will deliver the message needs to be an inclusive project. Kate Coleman, EVP of Strategy shares the profound transformation that has occurred through defining their cause as a team. She says that building brand equity has become a multiplier for their efforts and shares the single best tactic to start with.