(NOTE: This article is likely more applicable now than in 2016.)

Talk to me after the election. 

That’s what a client started hearing amidst the contentious 2016 general election season. And that’s when my client had to rework its plan. Yes, it was fall, and yes, it was beginning the second quarter. Revenue was critical. And you’ll recall this was prior to the Tax Reform Bill; people paid attention to the benefits of calendar year-end gifts. 

The timing of their message corresponded with news breaks about meddling and emails. People were drained.

When situations like this arise, nonprofits and educational institutions are in a bind. There’s already a plan. Events are scheduled. Appeals are ready. Phoning has begun. Gift officers have set travel schedules. Have you been in a similar situation?

Sometimes the resolution hurts short term. Flexibility allows it to work long term.

After my counsel, this client made a bold move and altered some plans – and it worked. Appeals dropped later than planned. Calling focus became uplifting messages about positive campus happenings; no asks. Gift officer visits decreased, particularly in areas with heightened political engagement. 

How willing are you to revise your plan based on current issues?  You may even be able to plan for these seasons. Institutions with strong athletic programs know not to schedule events during, say, football playoffs or March Madness. How about applying this way of thinking to election seasons? With a little review prior to setting your annual schedule – and even midyear – you may adjust your plans.

Consider these questions:

·      When are big primary and general elections in areas you cover? 

·      Are you in an area or traveling in a state with key elections?

·      Are you near the state or nation’s capital? 

·      Which Board members and key volunteers are involved in political campaigns?

·      What supporters are contributors to candidates or campaigns? 

·      How is the mood of your constituency affected by an election’s tone? 

·      Is this a year with multiple political mailers and robocalling?

Then take a hard look at your plan:

·      A Board member may not be able to attend a meeting due to political involvement – offer them grace on attendance requirements. 

·      Your gift officers may encounter challenges getting appointments – reconsider their metrics for election months. 

·      Don’t let your mailings get lost in all the campaign postcards – have them ready to hit mailboxes after the election. 

·      If you must call, consider making thank you calls or providing general updates to distinguish your organization from just another cold call. 

·      Scrutinize all social media posts. The most seemingly innocuous post may trigger unexpected comments based on the climate.

Elections in FY21 and in some cases, even FY20, have potential to affect advancement efforts at your institution or nonprofit. How will you tweak your plan, if necessary? How willing are you to be flexible? Who could take a fresh look at your plan and provide counsel?

In this case, after the dust settled, people talked after the election. Spring results exceeded expectations. How will you be prepared?