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| Re: Idealism vs Practicality
Posted by manny k   on 2/18/2010, 1:42 pm, in reply to "Re: Idealism vs Practicality"
Sreemathi,
I must repeat my disclaimer. I have limited knowledge of business matters.
But it seems you're present predicament is one of advertising and persuasion. Advertising exists very much in the non-profit sphere just like the business world. Given that your organization provides a credible service and works with credible organizations, how can you use the information available to you to convince others to donate?
In Western rhetoric, we often refer to Aristotle's techniques for persuasion: logos, ethos, and pathos. Up to now, we have been talking about ethos, the credibility and values of your organizations. A sheet outlining these arguments may prove useful and convincing to potential donors. Logos refers to arguments of "reason" and often includes meaningful statistics. You might prepare a sheet which includes the number of children you have helped, the types or quality of service, or any quantitative outcome which may reflect positively on the organization. Pathos refers to emotional arguments. Pictures of children that you have helped and perhaps a short narrative or two of their illness/recovery may prove useful in drawing sympathy from listeners.
There are infinite ways that these persuasive techniques can be combined and arranged. Take a look at some of the most successful non-profits that work with children. How do they give a viewer/listener/reader the impression that they are a credible, meaningful, outcomes-oriented organization worthy of donations?
Think about copying their persuasive techniques. Imitation is a form of flattery.
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