Tommy DiMisa
February 16, 2024
General

Nonprofit Networking

Networking and relationship building have forever been critical practices for nonprofit organizations, their leaders, and other major organizational stakeholders such as board members, community relations professionals, fundraising professionals, and development teams.

In my networking, I have the honor of knowing, connecting with, and collaborating with many leaders of nonprofit organizations which offers perspective through a unique lens. Having interviewed more than 150 nonprofit executive leaders on Philanthropy in Phocus, since January of 2021 – I have been able to gain some unique insights. In my experience in 2023, networking for nonprofit organizations proved to be as important as ever, although at times it looked different than it had looked in the past. Nonprofit organizations, like other businesses network and build relationships for a variety of reasons and with a very specific set of outcomes. In nonprofit organizations, some reasons for networking are:

To grow their donor base
To form alliances with for-profit businesses, government agencies, faith-based organizations, and other mission-driven organizations
To build their brand recognition
Attract board members and volunteers
Professional development
Give back – help others
Attract new employees

When building a networking strategy, while traditional methods work, I see the importance of adopting or continuing to evolve an organization’s use of social media platforms, as well as exploring utilizing Artificial Intelligence programs. Like creating a strategic plan for your organization, it’s also important to consider a strategic plan specifically for your networking initiatives. While meeting new people, making connections, and learning about each other can be fun and exciting, what is important is the idea to create a win-win experience with measurable results.

*Some ideas to consider when planning your networking strategy*

Why are you networking?
Who are you looking to meet?
How will both parties benefit from the connection?
How will you evaluate success?
How will you add value and nurture these relationships?

While pen and notebook can work, spreadsheets and potentially using a CRM system are often beneficial when managing an organization’s relationships. Many organizations use CRMs and donor management tools to manage donor data – I see the opportunity to leverage such tools in networking practices as well.
When it comes to the how and where, it is important to identify where, as in what types of groups or events you want to attend, as well as if there is a specific geography focus.

A major boon for nonprofit professionals and others from the COVID era was the high adoption of virtual and hybrid networking events. While many believe that virtual meetings and events may at times lack some level of connection experienced at a live in-person event, I believe that the efficiency and reach of the virtual connection offset some of the shortfalls. To my surprise, I have developed some incredibly strong connections with people that I have yet to meet in person. I have grown my network substantially over the last 3 years, specifically across the US and in some international markets. Not only has this had a positive effect on my business and me – but it also has added value to those in my network by way of introductions that I can facilitate. I know many nonprofits that have grown substantially, created new collaborations, and enhanced programming with much less regard for the geographic distance that may have seemed prohibitive in the past. I also know others who have focused locally and have had success in forming relationships with strategic partners by exploring creativity and innovation.

I expect in 2024 to see continued opportunities for nonprofit professionals to leverage their networks and create and nurture new relationships. I believe that a well-thought-out networking plan and strategic effort can support an organization’s growth and impact in 2024 and beyond!

Many people have heard that your “Network is your net worth” – I have been known to discuss the importance of Social Capital consistently saying things like – “I am only as strong as my network” or “my success is based on the strength of my Social Capital.”