Is it just us or is the conversation about AI… a lot?
Yes, AI is quickly changing the way supporters and advocates connect with your mission. Today, we’re walking you through what this shift means and what you can do about it.
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We’ve all been there. You and your team have poured endless hours into crafting the perfect communications strategy or advocacy plan. You’re proud, you’re excited… but there’s one last step: bringing it to your board.
As a leader at a foundation or nonprofit, you know that board buy-in is so much more than a rubber stamp or a vote of approval. You want early, sustained trust and partnership that turns a great plan into a smashing success. Getting to that feeling of being "all in" together is the result of a thoughtful, ongoing process.
Here are four simple shifts in the way you work to get that process in motion and earn that buy-in… every time.
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You’re working on that big grant proposal. I’m talking hours of research, planning and writing to craft that perfect pitch. But before you send it, wait! Did you remember to budget for actually telling people about the great work you’ll do if you win the funding?
Today, I’m sharing why you should include communications in your grant proposal.
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At Forthright, we condemn white supremacy, xenophobia, and all forms of hate and oppression. Alongside our clients and partners, we stand firmly committed to the fights for justice, equality and a sustainable future.
While it may be tempting to succumb to panic and emotional language given the very real challenges we’re up against, we want to invite you to take a deep breath and remember what you know – and be honest about what you don’t.
After these election results, it’s up to us to advocate even smarter and harder for and with those we serve. We’re not giving up. And I know you’re not giving up, either.
Here’s where to start.
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“What are the best interview questions to ask a candidate for your open communications director position?”
“How do you manage a communications workload when you’ve got someone out on parental leave?”
“Who do you tell once a communications teammate gives you notice that she’s leaving your organization for a new job?”
We answer all these questions and more in our new FREE guide to hiring communicators.
As communicators, it’s our job to deeply understand what came before us. For example, knowing about child care’s roots in chattel slavery can help you communicate effectively about workforce challenges. Knowing the history of de- (and recent re-) segregation can help public school communicators better connect around school closures and redistricting.
Great communicators are history experts and are constantly absorbing news and context. We're sharing tips about when and how to think about history here.
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Here’s a conversation I’ve had many times throughout my career:
🙋Executive director: How big should my communications team be?
🤔Me: Well… that depends. How much of your mission relies on convincing people to take action?
We’ve seen it all: 10+ person communications teams, and one part-time person communications teams. A one-person shop could be perfect for some organizations, while others need the full comms squad. Here are the key points to consider as you decide how to invest in YOUR headcount.
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