I just read a book called The DragonFly Effect (@DFlyEffect), written by Jennifer Aaker and Andy Smith and they had some really solid tips on using social media to drive social change. It was named for the only insect that is able to move in any direction when its four wings are working in concert. I never thought of it that way, but I like it. In the book, they reveal how four key actions come together to produce colossal results.

“By learning how to effectively Focus, Grab Attention, Engage, and Take Action, everyday people can produce extraordinary results” – whether they are trying to provide clean water, find an organ donor, or change a kid’s behavior through fun. Read more »

Fundraising is the lifeblood of nonprofits; finding a diverse mix of government, foundation, corporate and individual giving to support the mission of your organization is the key to a financially stable agency. Your website is in a prime position to offer folks the opportunity to give to an organization that aligns with their values.

Most of the nonprofits out there are doing great work, so what makes you stand out from the crowd? Positioning yourself with an intuitive, easy-to-use format lends credibility to your organization and educates the visitor. Your website lets them to learn more about you, assess your legitimacy and review your financial solvency. Designing nonprofit websites with fundraising as a focus gives visitors an opportunity to support your good work. Read more »

1. Volunteering helps you become a happier person.

I know this is a bold statement, but it’s based on my own personal experience and an article I read on Cnn.com this week. The article was on “What makes people happy?” Deepak Chopra said “…the fastest way to happiness is to make other people happy.” And Harold Kushner said “…happiness results from knowing you made someone else’s life better.” Both of these comments translate the satisfaction of helping others by volunteering. Bringing happiness into different aspects of my life helps me create balance and definitely helps me in growing my business

I have found with my volunteer work has given me tremendous satisfaction over the years. When I’m helping others, I feel better about myself. It’s not about a hand out, but a hand-up. Whether it’s helping to beautify Balboa Park or putting on a fundraiser to help feed people with AIDS or cancer, knowing that my time is spent making a difference positively impacts my life and my business. Read more »

This is a topic I get asked so often (and one that I ask myself on a regular basis). For this post, I’m going to focus on things that don’t involve a website, since some folks may not have one yet (crazy, right?). I’ll write another post including websites next month. Although I’m not focusing on any one industry right now, I’ll suggest no to low cost marketing ideas that can be applied to retail, manufacturers or service providers.

1. Network like you’re catching the last bus of the night!

This is the most valuable business tool you possess. Part of owning my own business has always been a reluctance to reach out, because I don’t consider myself a “salesperson”. I’ve felt like people should see my work and want to do business ( a little self-centered?). Socially, I have no problem talking to anyone in the room. So what I started doing is looking at professional contacts the same way I approach social settings. I just jump in and talk about anything that comes to mind. I can usually steer the conversation towards what I do for a living, but if not, I at least hand my business card over. If that’s as far as I get, I consider that a small victory. Read more »