It was estimated that, despite the economic downturn in 2008, Canadians were still able to donate approximately $8.9 billion to charity. Though this was a 5% drop from the previous year, it’s certainly no miniscule amount, not to mention the thousands of hours of volunteer work we worked for non-profits. It seems we are more aware of the importance of giving of our resources and our time, much more that we were a decade ago. The techniques of today certainly differ from those in the 80s and early 90s, when only those large organizations who can afford TV, print and radio advertising (plus a celebrity endorser or two) could get the word out.
The Internet has become the great equalizer, where everyone with a cause can spread their message, and now so more than ever with Facebook, Twitter, YouTube etc. Social media and non-profits seem to the perfect match – both relying on people’s participation and beginning from the grassroots. In the past 5 years or so, many organizations, big and small, have used social media for their own causes. It is inexpensive and cost-effective, allowing them to directly contact with their target audience. But whether you’re a seasoned campaigner, or just getting your feet wet, it’s not as simple as just building a website and expecting the dollars to start rolling in. There are a few key tips you should keep in mind, if you want to start your own cause marketing campaign, which will keep you on track to get that hole-in-one. (more…)
It’s especially important on Facebook to have your updates show up on the top of fans’ News Feeds rather than getting buried under the bounteous (and more recent) other updates being made. Timing is of the essence. So when are women online to actually receive those brilliant marketing messages you’ve created? 
