If you’re running a nonprofit, you know direct mail is a critical tool for fundraising.
Here are three tips from the experts on how to maximize your efforts.
Direct mail is the #1 motivator for donations.
With so many “free” marketing channels out there, it might be tempting to transition much of your fundraising to electronic media. However, direct mail remains the strongest, most effective way for nonprofits to solicit donations.
According to YouGov, 21% of people gave to a nonprofit because of a print solicitation. This is compared to 12% who gave through mass media, 6% through social media, and 10% through email. To keep donations flowing, don’t stop the direct mail!
Your house list is gold.
Treated right, most people who donate to an organization will do so again. That’s why your house list is the most important list you have. Keep this list clean, up to date, and treat your donors like the most important people in the world — because they are.
What about prospecting? Purchasing a relevant direct mail list is an important way to bring in new people who might be interested in your mission, but it will not be your primary source of donations. Prospecting helps to expand your donor base, but your house list is the primary source of your fundraising dollars.
Do more than ask for money.
When it comes to a person’s likelihood to donate, the most important factor is his or her connection to the organization. To increase donations, use direct mail to build real, lasting relationships with donors over time.
- Make sure your donors understand your mission and where their money will be used.
- Write to donors by name and personalize your messaging based on the specific areas or projects to which they have donated.
- Provide pictures or stories about the specific ways their donations are being used. If people are donating to an ongoing project, keep them in the loop on the progress.
People want to help, and they enjoy being part of efforts to do good for the world around them. Use direct mail to make them feel part of your mission, and they will open their wallets to continue to be part of it.
When it’s time to write your annual appeals, check our tips for a winning letter.
CFS can help you create a one-on-one dialogue with mail recipients that has proven to significantly increase donor support and retention. This approach has yielded millions in revenue for nonprofit clients across many sectors including hunger, homelessness, faith, education, and human services.
Give us a call or fill out the “Get in Touch” form to see how we can help you increase your donations
