Animal Welfare Professionals

What's the best marketing tip you've received?

Make it short. Make an emotional connnection. And remember it’s about drawing them in for more rather than pleaing for an adoption (aka- not adoption counseling)

Transparency is key - they must trust you before they'll hear what you have to share.

I know our organization needs someone for both marketing and IT--often times the fees for these individuals are difficult to come up with. I feel like we could  have more savvy within our group and utilize all the valuable information via this forum and others for marketing--just need someone to commit to the TIME. The IT individual is the piece that is gonna have to be paid for unless an animal-loving ANGEL appears to volunteer!! 

Or you find a high school or college student who can help you (depending upon what you need) or a local business who will provide probono services to your organization.

Do A Good Job. Tell People About It. Ask for Help

It's a challenge to ask people to donate, volunteer, foster or even adopt if they don't know you - and what @DeniseDeisler mentioned is so true - transparency creates trust.

Cultivating your community so they know who you are will go so far - that is the telling people about it part. What stories can you share about your successes, so they know you are transparent and connect with your values and culture. Share announcements about a milestone adoption or foster number you have hit or a great story of an adoption. 

Don't forget your local media are citizens of your community. Invite them for tours, to participate in a doggy date night or event or ask them to foster a pet overnight and write about it or share their experience. If they feel connected they will be there to help you when you need it most.