Non-profits are a unique entity in the business world. Although they operate similarly to other businesses, the culture, restrictions, and resources are unlike those of typical businesses. Because of this, there are many unique struggles non-profit directors face. By leveraging the right resources, non-profit directors can overcome many of these challenges and operate more efficiently and effectively in today’s world.
Retaining Talent
Retaining talent is particularly challenging for non-profits. If you think about most companies, there are multiple departments and a well-established hierarchy with room for growth. Non-profits often lack this complex structure and therefore offer less upward mobility. Thus, it can be difficult to acquire and retain skilled staff.
Many non-profits rely on passion and commitment to the cause as motivating factors for employees. These are certainly important, but so is finding a balance between that and job fulfillment. The key is allowing employees to grow within the constraints of the non-profit. For example, there may be opportunities to learn and build additional skills in horizontal roles or roles on projects with increased public exposure.
Delegation
Non-profit directors often wear multiple hats. This can certainly get burdensome over time and makes it difficult to achieve set goals. Retaining good talent and being able to delegate is very important. It’s helpful to delegate both within the organization and also to outside professionals. There may not be enough work to hire a new full-time employee or perhaps the skills required span across different types of employees. Delegation through outsourcing is a way to access diverse skillsets without adding multiple headcounts.
Establishing Strategic Partnerships
Similar to outsourcing, strategic partnerships can elevate the operations of non-profits. The difficulty is choosing the right partnerships for your needs. Fortunately, there are professionals that fill that role too. Consultants can help you identify potential partners and evaluate their services against your needs. From accounting to website development, IT support, human resources, and graphic design, strategic partnerships can address almost any need of a non-profit.
Employing Business Strategies
Lastly, employing business strategies is one of the many struggles that non-profit directors face. This should not be mistaken for or combined with the overall mission of the non-profit. Business strategies pertain more to operational decisions and workflows. Although separate from the mission, good business strategies ultimately enable non-profits to achieve their goals.
Overcoming Struggles That Non-Profit Directors Face
What does this list of struggles non-profit directors face have in common? They are all issues that Remote COO can help resolve! We provide services that allow non-profits to maximize time and fill the gaps in everyday needs. Whether it’s managing operations, establishing strategic partnerships, executing marketing plans, or developing business strategies, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn how we can help make your non-profit more efficient and successful.