What are the most common mistakes when managing a community outreach budget?

2 Mistake 2: Not doing enough research

Another common mistake is to base your community outreach budget on assumptions or guesses, rather than on solid data and evidence. You need to do some research to understand your target audience, their needs, preferences, and challenges, as well as the best channels and strategies to reach them. You also need to research the costs and benefits of different outreach activities, such as events, advertising, social media, or partnerships. By doing enough research, you will be able to allocate your resources more efficiently and effectively.

3 Mistake 3: Not being realistic

A third mistake is to be unrealistic about what you can achieve with your community outreach budget. You may have a grand vision and ambitious goals, but you also need to be realistic about your capacity, constraints, and risks. You need to set a budget that is feasible, flexible, and sustainable, and that accounts for unexpected expenses and contingencies. You also need to be realistic about your expected outcomes and impact, and not overpromise or exaggerate your results.

4 Mistake 4: Not communicating well

A fourth mistake is to not communicate well with your stakeholders, such as your staff, board, donors, partners, and beneficiaries. You need to communicate your community outreach budget clearly and transparently, and explain the rationale behind your decisions. You also need to communicate your progress and achievements regularly, and solicit feedback and input from your stakeholders. By communicating well, you will be able to build trust, engagement, and support for your community outreach efforts.

6 Mistake 6: Not learning and sharing

A sixth mistake is to not learn and share from your community outreach budget and experiences. You need to document and reflect on your successes and failures, and what you have learned from them. You also need to share your learnings and best practices with your stakeholders, peers, and the wider non-profit sector. By learning and sharing, you will be able to enhance your knowledge, skills, and reputation, and contribute to the advancement of your cause and mission.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?