As we explore the power of messaging for organizations, it is important to recognize effective communication is a collective effort that should involve more than just staff. Board Members and volunteer leaders’ contribution to delivering powerful messages enhances the reach and impact of an organization.
So how can you as a Board Member be empowered to play a key role in messaging?
Know Your Why: As a Board Member, understanding why you are serving on the board is essential. More than just knowing the organization’s mission; it is about exploring your own motivations and passions. Being able to explain why you are personally connected to the mission and how the organization’s impact aligns with your goals helps you communicate your commitment authentically and inspires others with your genuine passion and dedication.
Understanding the Need: Having a clear understanding of the needs the organization addresses goes beyond knowing the mission statement. Truly knowing the specific challenges faced by the community or beneficiaries equips you to speak intelligently about why the organization’s work matters.
Communicating Value: This goes beyond listing programs available. When Board Members can share stories of impact, highlight successes, and use testimonials or data-based stories about how the organization makes a difference, it resonates with stakeholders on a deeper level.
Embracing Differentiation: Boards should be aware of what sets the organization apart from others. Whether it is a unique approach, innovative programs, or strategic partnerships and collaborations, understanding differentiation helps communicate why the organization stands out among other nonprofits. This creates opportunities to advocate for the organization with confidence and clarity.
Speaking authentically and accurately about an organization you represent as a volunteer validates its relevancy and broadens the reach of its mission.
Be sure you are equipped by having all board members go through our Need, Value, Differentiation exercise which helps build clear responses and ensures everyone is consistently sharing the same information.