In today’s online world, direct mail can be a challenge when it comes to getting solid results. If you operate a nonprofit, there are some creative things you can do to ensure a successful direct mail fundraising. Reel your donors in with these direct mail tips that will ensure you get the funds you need to carry on with your good work.
Tell Your Story
As a nonprofit, your backstory is incredibly important. Make sure the direct mail you send includes comprehensive information about your cause. Be sure to mention the history of the organization and how it was formed. Make the content engaging and use conversational language that will convince donors to give and participate. Don’t be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve with your direct mail fundraising. Be open and honest, and even a bit vulnerable. People who donate to nonprofits and charities want to know the “why” behind the request. By including a bit of history and context, you’ll tug at their heartstrings.
Use Personalization in Direct Mail Fundraising
To make a real impact, consider printing each piece of direct mail with the actual potential donor’s name. This small thing can have a huge impact on your return rate. Include keywords that are both enticing and engaging. The words “tax deductible” are a good choice, since it may trigger the recipient to give more based on that fact alone. Have a positive attitude in your wording and emphasize the importance of the person’s participation. By creating a mail piece that’s personalized, you’ll get better results since it gives the reader a feeling of belonging.
Add Colorful Graphics and Logos
Your logo is the symbol of your nonprofit, so it’s important to make it prominent on every piece you send. Include your logo on envelopes and inserts so that it gives the mailing a cohesive look and theme. In addition to the logo, create something that integrates bold, colorful graphics. Color and images attract people at a much higher rate than simple black and white text. You can add a stock photo or include a fun picture of your volunteers that will create a feeling of intimacy between your nonprofit and the reader. If your organization helps animals or the environment, make a dramatic photograph of those things the centerpiece.
Make it Skimmable
Most people who receive direct mail pieces quickly skim the content and either keep it or throw it away. Make sure you’re including content that is easy to read and gets straight to the point. Avoid using long walls of text that will cause your recipients to move on. Instead, try short paragraphs of two to three sentences long at most. Bullet points are an excellent tool to showcase the facts about your nonprofit. Finish the piece of mail with a direct call to action that encourages them to donate.
Effective Direct Mail is Easy
With these simple tips, you can create impressive, memorable direct mail fundraising. By integrating your story and logo, you’re sure to leave a lasting impression and get results. For more information on non-profit direct mail and other printing services, give us a call or visit our website today.