In Private sector these dinosaurs would soon recognise that a changing market requires them to adapt and take advantage of the new emerging opportunities. Failure to do so would without doubt cost them their jobs. This is not a time to complain and debate about capacity, it is time to act. Can you imagine Alan Sugar giving a task then withdrawing it because the commercial winds changed? I think not.
Don't just Survive ?? Thrive
All you need to do is embrace the idea of doing something different if you want different results. Whilst some were out shaking a box or having a coffee evening others have been getting into new ideas that could change the face of fundraising. No this is not just for large charities it's for everyone, it's for you. With the birth of the Office of 3rd Sector there should be a focus on searching for innovative ways not just to survive but to thrive. Don't stop what you have been doing successfully, but search out new opportunities from trading with Public Sector to using new income-generating ideas that create ongoing unrestricted revenue not just one off donations.
On-Going Unrestricted Income
Your websites and the internet can offer you amazing ongoing unrestricted income, well worth checking it out as some small groups and charities are generating hundreds of pounds a month every month with little to no effort. If you are not in this position ask the question why not? Who is responsible and what are they doing about it? If it's you, start doing something now.
Big words I hear you say, but how? I would like to say it's simple but surprise, surprise it's not. Sadly it means stepping out of your comfort zone and learning new skills and most of all being open to new methods. The creation of relationships and collaborations with Public and Private Sector will become absolutely essential to survival for 3rd sector organisations over the coming years so now is a good time to start. That might mean you pushing the boundaries and asking private sector for help on joint ventures as a trusted partner rather than treating them like a necessary evil.
Engage with your Supporters
Smell the coffee, times have changed, move with the flow. The support you require is still there but now it will require you to look at new and exciting ways to engage with individual and corporate supporters. Remember the rule of WIIFM ?WHATS IN IT FOR ME?. Private sector participates in CSR because it's good for their business not because they just like giving money to good causes. Take time to understand the sponsoring company's needs and support them to achieve their goals and they will do the same for you.
Public Sector on the other hand are looking to trade with you if you offer value for money, not just a sob story and an ok service. Don't get annoyed I am not writing this article to upset those who are doing all the right things but trying to get others to think and act before it's too late. Many of the 3rd Sectors groups are superb and please forgive me if I have insulted you but others are in need of straight talking not just soft words of support.
Individuals support you because they get something out of it as well. Yes they do, even if it's just for a feeling of being useful and needed.
Everyone needs to be supplied with what they need; it's not all about you.
What Next?
For many who may be reading this what's the alternative? Well some will throw in the towel because the world has changed but many others I am sure will rise to the challenge. To engage with private / public sector you first have to meet them so visit public sector meet the buyer events (EG http://www.ngb2b.org.uk/show_event.asp'id=81) and of course join your Chamber of Commerce. A good start that's completely free would be to visit our site and try using some of the free ideas at www.getfunds4free.com.
You can also get a free income generating website with content management.
Good Luck
Absolutely everything has a cycle, a rhythm to it and your business is no different! Every business goes through cycles of highs and lows. How's business for you? In my recent conversations with clients and colleagues, the consensus is that many are experiencing a "lull" in business activity. These "slow" periods in our businesses can be linked to a variety of reasons and two of the biggest factors are: the changing economy and seasonal effects (the holidays can either ignite your business or cool it way down).
So, how to make the best use of your time during a slow down period in your business? Well, I've got good news for you. Slow downs are a remarkable opportunity for business owners to revitalize their business, create a sharper focus, and position themselves for better results!
When your calendar suddenly reveals to you some open spaces, don't panic. Better idea? Get excited and roll up your sleeves. Now you've got some extra time. Use it to fine tune your business plans, goals, and dreams.
7 Ways to Rev' Up Your Business During a Slump:
1. Clear Out the Clutter - Go on a Wild Clean-Out Spree! Take a few spare hours to clear all the clutter from your office, your desk, your files, your calendar, your books, emails, and your computer. Getting rid of clutter is enormously useful! Streamline your life and you will be rewarded with a renewed sense of purpose and laser-like focus. Clear out your clutter today!
2. Do a Year Review - Take some time to review this past year. What worked well? What did not work well? What were your most profitable months/projects? What did you enjoy most about this past year? What would you like to accomplish in the year ahead?
3. Update Your Systems - Michael Gerber, Business Guru, says that ALL businesses need to have systems in place in order to thrive. Pick a part of your business that you can create a step by step system for and document it. Some places to start? Systemize your sales conversion process, your client intake process or your billing process. Systems are a business "life-saver" and will help you stay focused and on track with A LOT fewer headaches!
4. Learn or Master a New Skill - OK people, tell the truth here. How many of us have purchased books, ebooks and courses that are sitting on our shelves collecting dust? Now is the IDEAL time to commit to learning or mastering a new and profitable skill set. Now's a great time to master and fully utilize Linked-In, Twitter or affiliate marketing! Go for it. Your bank account will be happy.
5. Take a Trip - Got a few extra days with not much activity? Pack your bag and go on a spontaneous get away. A new environment, some good food, new sights all make for a re-energized soul. Let your hair down, go have an adventure! I promise you'll come back to your office with a fresh sense of purpose and energy! Bon Voyage!
6. Reconnect to your Passions and Values - This could be the perfect time to rendezvous with your hobbies, interests, and community projects. What makes you feel most alive, useful and on purpose? Use some of your free time and get involved. If not now, when?
7. The bottom line? All businesses have cycles of high and low activity. When things are in a slow-down mode, don't let a little slump get you down! Put on your creativity cap and explore your possibilities. Rev' up your business today. Before you know it, you will soar with new found focus and energy. The sky's the limit!
Both Ron Pusey & Diana Long are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Ron Pusey has sinced written about articles on various topics from Fundraising. For 20yrs Ron has been helping to develop events and improve sustainability for Public and 3rd sector. He spent 3 months volunteering in Sri Lanka and on his return set up a sustainable revenue stream for that project. Go to. Ron Pusey's top article generates over 6600 views. to your Favourites.
Diana Long has sinced written about articles on various topics from Sales and Negotiation, Fundraising and Education Toys. Learn more about Diana,"The Results Expert"(TM)and receive your FREE Report, "3 Huge Mistakes People Like You Make to Sabotage Their Success & How You Can Completely Avoid Them!" and FREE subscription to "Life & Work Design Secrets" e-newsletter, please v. Diana Long's top article generates over 14800 views. to your Favourites.