Category — Uncategorized

Okay, in the spirit of full disclosure, this post is not exactly about cause marketing. It is, however, about a topic with huge implications for business – NPO relationships: non-profit employee compensation.

A number of recent experiences have reminded me that NPOs still flip-flop in the decision to be a business or a “cause.” When I say “cause,” I mean the notion of a group of free-thinkers in a garage somewhere printing off flyers and going door-to-door with petitions. Don’t get me wrong, these types of activities are GOOD! My point is that they very rarely can stay within this paradigm and have the longevity and depth of impact that makes an organized NPO so effective.

Why then are non-profits, as a group, so reluctant to pay for what they need? If someone is a marketing guru with tons of experience and the kind of know-how to change the world, he or she must choose between being paid a fair wage for talents OR working for a non-profit.  Why do NPOs tend to hire the bargain employee instead of the best  – and then act surprised when the inexperienced employee struggles? Don’t even get me started on consulting, equipment, computers, software and marketing…

If I were queen for a day, here is what I would say to non-profits: “Value those who are talented AND choose to put their talents to use for the benefit of our communities and our causes. Pay competitive prices and wages, demonstrate quality in all that you do and your supporters will see you as such. Investing wisely is not wasting money.”

Sometimes getting started with a new project is the most difficult step.  We procrastinate, think of a million other things to do and basically try anything to stay in our comfort zone.  This has been the case with me starting this blog.  Ironically, I realized that it is also the reason that so many organizations (corporate and non-profit) are not making the most of their partnership opportunities.

It’s easier to continue doing things as they have always been done.  To stick with the status quo.  The reality is that the world continues to change a round us as we stand still.  I never thought I would be a blogger and many businesses probably never thought they would be doing the types of creative collaborations that are dotting the marketing landscape today.  Either way, the new era is here.  Like it or not, our supporters, customers, clients and investors are looking to us to pave the way.  They expect us to do what is best in the marketplace.  Goal Driven Philanthropy will explore this new marketplace and will hopefully be a guide on this new path.