A new client said she wanted to get more exposure for her organization. It is important that people get the basic information and access to applications immediately when they visit the site. Below is my response and suggestions for updating the site and gaining more exposure overall.
“I’ve been thinking about ways to get more exposure for your program. My question is do you want the exposure to attract more participants or more donors? Or is it simply about awareness?
Regarding the website, I looked at similar sites across the country and see that the front page talks about the program and highlight a few recent events and a few members.
Making the current site’s front page static or unchanging should not be difficult. Once we come up with what you want to say it may be as simple as giving it to the design company and asking them to make that content the front page matter.
For now just adding new text about the program should be enough until you decide to highlight events and participants.
Other ways to get the word out about the organization is to do press releases. You could also put together some kind of kid’s safety kit that includes information for parents and something for kids about personal safety and bullying.
You might consider recruiting a few professionals to do a self-defense class for kids and moms once a quarter.
With the safety kit and classes you can get email addresses and get permission to send an eNewsletter about upcoming events and classes. This will keep your org in the mind of those who participate.
Also, each time the organization is involved in an event where registration is required an email address should be captured.
With your current mailing list (from current and past participate) you could send out information every two weeks or monthly. These days that’s the way people connect.
I suggest putting a donation badge (PayPal) on the site so people can donate whatever they can. Every little bit helps. You might also give them a list of things that you will purchase with the funds so they feel like they are contributing to something concrete.
Larger donors could purchase much needed equipment and supplies. The purchases can be listed and the donor name included on the website and/or small plaque next to the item.
Forms can be easily uploaded to your site with a link so people can print and fill in. It would cut down on a lot of calls and be more self-service oriented.
So here are the ideas I mentioned:
- Review other websites
- Publish a monthly eNewsletter
- Add a donation badge and page
- Give away a free safety kit
- Capture emails every chance you get
- Write and send press releases”
These tips may help your organization or business. There are so many ways, often free, to get more traffic to your site or members to your organization. With a little time, effort, and a plan, you will be well on your way to more recognition and increased bottom line.
