Are Your Systems Working for You, Against You, or Not at All?
Let’s Talk Systems to Help Your Nonprofit
I’ve used quite a few different systems in my grant writing business over the years. Even now that I’m mainly working with clients on coaching and strategy, systems are as important as ever.
We need to track multiple areas including logistics, communications, internal, and external. These might include:
- A system for digital and paper files – naming, folders, clients, records, meeting notes, and documents
- Passwords – I recommend LastPass
- Calendar with auto reminders for recurring tasks
- A system for note taking and action items
- Network tracking – contacts, organizations, donors, grant funders, community partners
- Client or donor updates
- Budgeting – income, expenses, filings
- Internal systems and communications – board meetings, bylaws, policies and procedures, personnel, staff, volunteers
- Strategic plan and goals (If you don’t have one, contact me! We need to work on this asap!)
- Fundraising plan and activities, grant applications, projects, and reporting
- Data – start tracking before you need it for a grant application or report. If you aren’t sure how, let’s talk about how you can set it up!
- Big goals and daily action steps
Are You Running Your Systems, or Are Your Systems Running You?
Lest you think I’m some sort of systems machine, let’s keep it real!
Systems are great in theory, but sometimes we all take turns being a hot mess. That’s part of it!
The main thing is that we don’t stay there, and to know what’s most important and make sure those are covered.
Can you offload some of your work to a system?
If you find yourself:
- dropping the ball a lot,
- doing a lot of repetitive tasks,
- having to explain things over and over to different people on your team,
- or you’re not collecting the kind of data you need for your grant applications,
…then that’s a good sign it’s time to take a look at your systems. You’ll be glad you did!
Ready to Gear Up For Grants? Private Nonprofit Workshop
I’ve been cooking up some resources just for you nonprofits out there!
A powerful, focused strategy map is the key to helping you gain traction and make a bigger impact in your nonprofit. This FREE 4-part audio workshop and workbook will help you start to lay the foundation for future grant success in your nonprofit. You’ll learn to leverage your nonprofit’s resources more strategically so you can make a bigger impact.
Get the details and Gear Up For Grants here!
Want to Be a Grant Writer? Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer
If you’re wanting to become a grant writer to help nonprofits tell their story to make a bigger impact, then get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer today at teresahuff.com/vip.
And a quick shoutout to our friends at Instrumentl for sponsoring today’s show. Remember, if you need a hand with your grant searches and ongoing tracking, go check out Instrumentl’s free trial at teresahuff.com/Instrumentl and get $50 off your first month with the code GWSPOD.
What’s YOUR favorite system? Send me a message – I’d love to hear it!
Other Resources Mentioned:
- LastPass Secure Passwords