Story.
I met with some colleagues recently who are embarking on a new venture. These are women of passion and excellence and both are experts in their field. They are intentional and do what they say they are going to do. The organization they represent is steadfast and of great reputation.
Our conversation came around to their organization's neglect when it comes to self-promotion and the subsequent loss of opportunities to organizations that are more adept at promoting themselves. It is frustrating to know you are the best equipped to take on the challenge and yet aren't given the opportunity because, well, others are more top-of-mind.
I think many people tire of the boasting and bragging and unadulterated self-promotion we see all too often. We don't want to do that so we run the other direction. I believe we can strike a healthy balance between too much and not enough. As you consider your organization's approach to marketing, consider this:
Perception is reality. People only know what they see. Marketing is at its essence sharing who you are and what you do so people know. It doesn't have to be over-the-top or exaggerated. Share what is true about your achievements, outcomes and impact and contribute to a correct perception about your organization's work.
Do not be afraid to tell your story. Know the outcomes and stories of impact. Tell your story well and tell it often.
Be intentional innetworking and getting in front of people. Find two or three ways to get in front of new audiences every year. Be planned and strategic about who needs to hear your story. Make a plan and work the plan.
Marketing can get a bad rap but it is key to sharing who we are and what we do. As we embark on a new year ahead, let's be better sharers of our work so we can rightfully and righteously increase our impact.
-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP
#communitydevelopmentprofessionals #imagemanagement #getorganizedgetfunded
