How To Know If A Nonprofit Blog Is Right For You
Being involved in the nonprofit sector is a busy work life. You could even say it’s hectic. So, when taking on a new tool or project, its effects on your time and money are of critical importance.
You’re likely reading this blog post because you think that by creating or improving your own blog, you could help your bottom line. And, you know what? You’re absolutely right! However, blogging does take time and a certain level of commitment, so it’s beneficial to first figure out if a nonprofit blog is right for you.
Consider the following resources you’ll need to help you decide:
Time
Time needed per week: 3+ hours
It’s estimated that 40% of people with a blog spend at least 3 hours per week working exclusively on it. Can you or someone else at your nonprofit spare a minimum of 3 hours per week?
People
People needed: 1+
Ideally, you should have at least 2 people helping out with the blog, so there’s always another set of eyes to proofread, fact-check and possibly add visuals and links to the content. Not to mention helping to share the content on social media.
But, also keep in mind that many people run their own solo blogs and still do a great job, so don’t let that stop you!
Tools
Tools needed: A computer and content management system (CMS)
There are content management systems that are both easy to use and have free blogging options. WordPress and Wix are two popular examples.
Skills
Skills needed: Basic computer and writing skills
You don’t have to be a genius or have blogging experience to start your own blog. If you already have a website, you can easily implement a blog. And if you don’t want to have it on your website, you can create a separate blog using a CMS, as mentioned above. If you’re still unsure, there are a variety of youtube videos that walk you through how to create a free blog.
Basic writing skills are also important, but if you’re involved in the management of a nonprofit, chances are you’re probably pretty good at writing, especially about your organization.
Budget
Finances needed: $0+
You can start a blog absolutely free of charge, using the sites mentioned above and others. This is, of course, if you’re not factoring in the time and manpower as part of the cost.
You’ll likely end up spending some money on your blog in one way or another, but the main point is that it’s affordable.
Goals
Goals to be filled: Attracting and engaging supporters
If your goal is to attract new supporters and engage your current ones, a blog is one of the best (if not the best) way to do it. Blogging is a very effective way to keep your supporters and general visitors to your website updated on what’s going on within your organization while also bringing in new visitors by way of search engine optimization (SEO).
Nonprofit blogging can also be a fun and effective way to give back to your supporters. So, think of your blog as a gift to them that, in turn, also gives back to you!
