19. Simplify, Humanize + Tell a Great Story - Jonathan McCoy, CFRE & Becky Endicott, CFRE

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Overview

Storytelling is the heartbeat of connection. And we strive to tell it rawly, transparently and kindly...because story opens the doors to the empathy required to create an uprising. Join Jon & Becky as they share why storytelling is absolutely essential to bringing others to know and love your mission. They walk through some simple Do's and Don'ts, and finish by sharing a deeply personal story of hope.

“If we can tell stories rawly, transparently, and kindly, we believe we can bring more people in to love our missions.”

— Becky Endicott CFRE, Co-Founder and Chief Storyteller, We are for Good

Put the human and story of the center of your missions
Tell stories rawly, transparently, and kindly to bring more people to love your mission
Jon and Becky’s 7 storytelling hacks

Powerful Quotes:

“We have no idea when we are going to need the services of the missions we are serving. It is bigger than us.” -Becky

“Storytelling is about vulnerability.” -Becky

“If we can tell stories rawly, transparently, and kindly, we believe we can bring more people in to love our missions.” -Becky

“Start with, “I want to tell you a story of hope.”” -Becky

“Everybody is not everywhere, but somebody is everywhere.” -Jon

“It is our job as storytellers, writers, nonprofit professionals, and humans to translate these stories in a meaningful way to help people fall in love with our missions.” -Becky

“How many people can you reach out to and make a connection. That is your challenge.” -Becky

Jon and Becky’s Storytelling Hacks

Avoid using stock photography.
Don’t write like a corporate robot. Tell the story the way you want to hear it.
Use stories that are relatable to your donor. Can they picture themselves in the story?
Equip your leaders with stories. Take a story that humanizes your mission to every presentation and meeting.
Use a syndicated, multichannel approach: how can a single story have numerous impressions?
Storytelling is not one sided. How do we pull someone in with a story and create a two sided conversation? How are we asking people to engage with us?
Whatever seat you are at, you have the ability to reach out and ask someone the story about their connection to your organization.

Explore the We Are For Good Core Beliefs

This episode is 3 of 7 where we unpack our core beliefs that lead to revolutionizing your fundraising. Explore all the episodes and learn more about our car beliefs here: We are for Good’s Core Beliefs