A new calendar year brings a sense of promise—like a blank notebook ready to be filled with your latest ideas and discoveries. Devoting an hour or two to thoughtful planning in December can pave the way for a more prosperous year than the last.
Five tips to help you start strategizing for 2024
1. Start with a 30,000-foot view
Without getting too detailed, review your annual fundraising efforts from the past year, and the previous year if you have time. Consider optimizing your time allocation. For example, you can convert long discussions into working meetings, or reevaluate the frequency of certain gatherings. You will also want to reassess annually recurring activities, such as events and donor recognition programs. Is it time for a fresh approach, like replacing a costly gala with a more inclusive event? Can you explore creative alternatives to traditional donor recognition to showcase the impact of giving?
2. Prioritize “sure things”
Identify key events, meetings, and deadlines to serve as anchors throughout the year. By incorporating these into your fundraising calendar first, you can plan around them effectively. For example, avoid scheduling a board meeting during the same week as your annual appeal deadline. Consider including dates like board meetings, significant celebrations, grant reporting deadlines, national holidays, Giving Tuesday, and staff milestones.
3. Work backward
For email and direct mail appeals, plot the dates you want them to be received by donors. From there, you can determine when they will need to be brainstormed, written, designed, and so forth. Give yourself plenty of time to create a draft, solicit feedback from relevant stakeholders, and employ email marketing best practices. For a comprehensive communications strategy, you will want to adapt your appeal content for various channels, including direct mail, email, social media, ads (print and online), radio spots, and billboards. A multichannel approach ensures consistent visibility among supporters.
4. Prioritize self-care
Recognize the importance of restorative time to prevent burnout. Block off time and schedule breaks in advance rather than waiting until you’re overwhelmed. This proactive approach allows both you and your team to plan ahead for staff vacations, conferences, travel time, and big days that will need everyone on deck. The slower summer months could provide breathing room for team-building activities and professional development opportunities. Consider leveraging free digital conferences, webinars, and resources to stay updated on industry trends and connect with peers.
5. Try a monthly or quarterly theme
Take a structured approach to your personal calendar by dedicating each month or quarter to a specific theme. For example, maybe you will focus on monthly giving in the beginning of the year to help you meet revenue goals. During that time, seek articles, webinars, or insight form donors to enhance your fundraising practices. At DonorPerfect, we create a themed fundraising calendar each year - download your free 2024 Fundraising Calendar for monthly tips and inspiration.
By reviewing past efforts, prioritizing your non-negotiables, and incorporating time for self-care, you can approach the upcoming year with a sense of purpose and peace of mind.
