Instagram, a photo-sharing service, is a powerful tool for garnering support from nonprofit stakeholders. The social media application, which is free for iPhone and Android use, allows people to take pictures and apply filters to give the image a new look. It is a user-friendly and simple way of building awareness, earning brand recognition and promoting events. With all of these benefits, ministry nonprofits should embrace this image-based application. It’s also a popular social channel, as there are approximately 200 million monthly active users, 20 billion photos shared and 1.6 billion “likes” daily, according to Instagram.
Getting started on Instagram doesn’t take much time and effort. Before utilizing the tool, M + R, a nonprofit consulting firm, suggested NPOs observe the social landscape. Start by searching for other organizations who pursue similar work. How are the ministry organizations applying this tool to their strategic marketing plan?
Use moving pictures to tell organizations’ story
In June 2013, it integrated a video-sharing feature. Nonprofit organizations can take advantage of this tool by capturing video during live events. They could even tape a 15-second testimonial of employees, participants and volunteers. Stay Classy, a fundraising platform firm, recommended NPOs tell the organization’s story through video in just a few seconds. No words are needed. Nonprofit management professionals could document a “day in the life” video of a client. Additionally, ministry organizations could reveal the direct impact of their services.
This visible medium will invite supporters into the nonprofit’s world, giving them a reason to care. People will feel more connected to the cause when they see concrete results.
Just like a fundraising software’s ability to send thank-you notes to donors, Instagram can send donors thank-you notes in the form of a video. Communication associates can personalize each video. Not only do donors see these images, but other supporters do as well, which can create a sense of community.