When people want to know more about your nonprofit, who do they talk to? Who serves as a reference? How can you help ensure your references speak knowledgeably and with specifics?
Don’t take your references for granted. Take time to talk with those you ask to serve as a reference. Ask if it is okay to use their name for a specific project or proposal. Permission is important, and references want to know when they may be contacted.
It is common for a funder to request three references. We suggest selecting people who will each say something distinct from the other. What are the three things you want a prospective funder to know about your nonprofit? Do they include organizational management, uniqueness, impact or track record and experience with collaboration.
When selecting references, ask yourself these questions: does this person really know the organization. Do they have a profile that a grant maker will take notice of? Are they known as honest and credible?
Consider asking someone who uses your services, has benefitted from your advocacy, or is a volunteer or donor. The person to stay away from is the one who says “Just write it for me and I’ll sign my name.” Of course you should provide each reference with materials to draw from, but you want someone who can ultimately use their own words.
Here are three examples. Which would you prefer to be said about your nonprofit?
Your brand is how people know you, what they say about you, and what they think about you. Check your references!
Copyright 2017 – Mel and Pearl Shaw
Mel and Pearl Shaw are authors of four books on fundraising available on Amazon.com. For help growing your fundraising visit http://www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.
Milton, are you denying or finding it insignificant that the TPLF attacked a federal army base...
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We need your advertising support to produce strong journalism, especially during periods of economic instability, so please contact vernon@blackstarnews.com for advertising rates and long term packages.
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