A look at how GreatNonprofits reviews can help increase support for your cause and grow your nonprofit’s network.
Why online reviews are a big deal
Smartphones, social media, and increased connectivity have made an incredible amount of information available to us anytime, anywhere. This accessibility has changed the way we make decisions as consumers.
Not sure where to go for dinner tonight? Check Yelp. On-the-fence about purchasing that sweater online? Look at its customer reviews. Instead of trusting a marketing department’s description, we want a real person’s opinion before we act.
In fact, a Nielsen study found that online consumer opinions are some of the most trusted sources of brand information, second only to recommendations from family and friends, with 70% of global consumers reporting taking action based on online reviews.
In the same way, donors and volunteers want to hear from real people before deciding to support a new nonprofit. According to GreatNonprofits,
- 80% of donors say reviews influence their giving
- 90% of donors say reviews help them better understand a nonprofit’s work
How reviews can benefit your nonprofit
I’ve said it before, but something all successful nonprofits have in common is effective donor engagement. People are more likely to support – and continue supporting – causes and organizations they feel personally connected to.
A great way for a nonprofit to connect with an individual is through honest, compelling stories like the ones supporters tell in online reviews. A review reflects a personal experience with an organization and is written in the reviewer’s own voice, adding a level of relatability that resonates with potential and existing supporters.
You can also use these reviews to create more compelling communications for your nonprofit. Feature a volunteer’s quote on social media to recruit new volunteers. If you have a review written by someone impacted by your work, feature their story on your website or in a newsletter to show donors the difference their support makes.
How to get started
First: Claim your nonprofit. Take a few minutes to complete your organization profile and provide details of your impact.
Second: Invite reviews through social media, email, SMS or phone. Reach out to donors, board members, volunteers, colleagues and clients.
Third: Share those reviews on your social media channels,thanking your supporters and spreading your message. The site’s built-in sharing options make it simple.
GreatNonprofits reviews are syndicated across dozens of partner sites, like JustGive and Guidestar, extending your nonprofit’s reach and increasing your credibility with real stories from real people.
-Amanda Chun
Account Development Manager
Don’t miss out on other helpful tips and tools: To automatically receive an email when we post more, subscribe to our Nonprofit Blog.