Often challenged with having to work with minimal budgets and small teams, it is no wonder that many non profit organisations question whether they have the time or resources to dedicate to social media, and, if in fact social media is even worth prioritising.

Having a presence in social media is a great way to expand your reach to include potential donors.  Social media can encourage individuals to become involved in non-financial ways such as spreading the message or signing up as volunteers.

Yet the biggest opportunity social media can contribute to your non profit organisation is insight.

At this very moment people are coming together online to discuss your cause or organisation, and you should be participating in these conversations.

Each day your social media network presents a unique opportunity, by listening to and talking with your community you will reach a deeper understanding of how people feel about your organisation or cause.

Social conversations spread worldwide, giving your organisation or cause exposure to people you may not have reached through more traditional methods. Your non profit organisation will receive immediate feedback, and will discover whether people understand the value you provide and if they have a reason to think about or engage with your cause.

Joining in the conversation not only gives your organisation a more personalised voice, it also gives you the opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of your programs directly, and to gather ideas from the community, resulting in deeper relationships, increased trust and values alignment.

Spending the time to cultivate a relationship with your audience through social media will not only improve your brand image, but will pay dividends through increased and better quality interactions, and growth in new members who join because of your engagement online or donate because they have developed a stronger connection with your organisation.