Think about your heroes. What do they all have in common? They talk, they tell stories, they get your attention through words.
Communication is the basic element of all success.
Throughout history our most respected and memorable heroes are great orators, or great writers, or both. Whether they are founders, philosophers, politicians, scientists, leaders in religion, the art, or business, the most influential are also the best communicators.
From ancient Greeks to hip-hop artists, orators use the stage and written words to get their message out.
Who are your heroes?
Today, among your personal heroes may be a great conversationalist in your family, a speaker with a motivational podcast, or an inspiring author. They have a voice and they use it to connect.
That’s what great communication can do.
Becoming a strong communicator gives you the power to influence people. It allows you to make connections. As a nonprofit leader, at any level, communication will win advocates, donors and volunteers. It will make you and your organization stronger and more influential.
Communication is so fundamental it is often overlooked as a key part of success. Yet, when you look at what nonprofits need to succeed, nothing is possible without communication. To fundraise or influence policy makers, or to recruit volunteers, you have to speak and write. To successfully serve clients or build a membership base, you must communicate.
Communication drives success
Every relationship begins with communication. That communication may be equally what you see and what you hear. As you meet someone new, or simply speak in front of someone, they get feelings about you based on your eye contact, movement, and, of course, what you say and how you express it.
Your audience, of one or many, detects your mood, your emotions, and your interest.
Body language starts with your eyes and continues down the body. To gain attention, respect, and interest, you can practice your smile and posture. You are aiming to communicate curiosity and respect. Your audience reflects your mood. If you are bored, they will be too.
The sparks that start a relationship are well known in dating: “we locked eyes across a crowded room.” Sparks also fly in the office, at networking events, even in virtual meetings.
Words matter
A great smile is an icebreaker, but words matter. We have tens of thousands of words to choose from and millions of combinations. How do you find the right ones?
The Nonprofit Champion journey begins with Communication. You will discover how to find your words and your voice, and to use them to connect and grow. To be a winner.
This is a game plan to take you and your organization from where are you now, to where you want to be.
Remember, as you dig in and get started, that every conversation matters. The world is full of opportunity for you and your organization, don’t let any of that pass you by.
A note to nonprofit champions (you):
This post is an excerpt from my book, Leader @ the Center. I hope it inspires you to go out and start a conversation today. You never know!
Merle Benny writes and speaks to inspire Nonprofit Champions. She believes that every nonprofit is created with love and deserves to thrive. Her marketing communications expertise and years of study led her to write Leader @ the Center. Everyone has the potential to be a leader and a Nonprofit Champion.