Recently, Richard shared a blog article about some of the key trends we’re seeing as we move into 2022. These are all things that have been of growing importance in the sector and, specifically, with our clients and participants. I wanted to touch on a few of the trends he mentioned and encourage you to spend some time considering how these may apply to your organization.

Trend #1 — Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will become more critical elements of your work.

The benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace are immense. Some of the most impactful reasons to have a diverse and inclusive culture are that it improves quality decision-making, encourages a more creative and innovative environment, and fuels new ideas to solve the problems you are working to address. There is no doubt that this is going to become an essential part of your work environment in the coming year.

Trend #2 — Make employees a priority.

With all the discussion around an exodus of non-profit fundraising staff, non-profits will start looking inward to finally figure out how to keep good people. People are your most important asset because they help you carry out your mission.

Here are the top workplace priorities among non-profit staff, based on a recent survey of non-profit employees. In other words, this is what they want from employers:

1. Option for remote work, driven by a desire for flexibility.
2. Competitive salary and benefits.
3. Focus on employee wellbeing.
4. Management that seeks out their opinions and listens to staff.

This all matters because the corresponding boost in productivity, innovation, and creativity will lead to increases in net revenue, stronger donor relationships, and improved staff retention.

Trend #3 — Donors are demanding more authentic partnerships.

This has been a trend for some time now, but it’s even more important in 2022. Here’s what we think are the important points for building those relationships next year:

1. Donors are part of achieving your mission.
2. Focus on reporting on donor giving impact.
3. Devote time and resources to learning your donor’s passions and interests.
4. See your donors as partners.
5. Everyone at your organization is in relationships with donors.
6. Boldly ask donors for support.

I want to focus on #3 and #6 above. The key to learning your donor’s passions and interests is to know your donor’s story… their “why.” In order to do that, you have to be curious. You must have a desire to learn what it is that drives the donor to have those passions and interests. Once you have that down, in order for you to boldly ask the donor for support, you must be able to have something meaningful to offer a donor.

The process to get to that meaningful offer takes work and collaboration within your organization, but once you have your entire non-profit’s budget worked out into all the projects and programs that make up your mission, you now have the ability to boldly ask the donor for a gift that matches those passions and interests.

There you have it! Top trends to be looking out for in 2022. The last thing I want to leave you with is this: resolve to celebrate more this coming year. Let’s have one of the top trends in the coming year be to celebrate your donors, your people, the tie between all your departments and your community in making your mission happen, and the impact you’re making in the world.

Cheers to a great 2022!