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Staying Ahead in a Swipe-First World: The Ultimate Guide to What Works on Social Media (Right Now)

Sat, 12 Apr 2025 17:18:56 GMT

From post size to timing to content type, here’s your no-fluff cheat sheet to staying current — and staying seen.

Social media moves fast. One day you’re using TikTok Notes, the next it’s retired. Instagram's algorithm changes weekly, and LinkedIn is now launching games. To stay relevant and effective, brands and creators need to stay flexible, updated, and strategic.

This guide is your one-stop resource for staying on top of what’s working in 2025: the right image sizes, when to post, and what kinds of content actually perform best across the major platforms.

�� Recommended Image & Video Sizes (Updated for 2025)

Instagram

Feed: 1080 x 1350 px (portrait) or 1080 x 1080 px (square)

Stories/Reels: 1080 x 1920 px (vertical)

Facebook

Feed: 1200 x 630 px (landscape)

Stories: 1080 x 1920 px

Cover Photo: 820 x 312 px

LinkedIn

Image Post: 1200 x 627 px

Profile Banner: 1584 x 396 px

Video Post: 1080 x 1080 px or 1920 x 1080 px

X (Twitter) & Bluesky

Feed Image: 1200 x 675 px or 1200 x 1200 (Bluesky)

Header: 1500 x 500 px

Videos: 1280 x 720 px

TikTok

Video: 1080 x 1920 px (vertical only)

YouTube Shorts

Video: 1080 x 1920 px (vertical)

Thumbnail (optional): 1280 x 720 px

⏰ Best Times to Post (Based on 2025 Trends & Data)

Instagram : Monday to Thursday, 9–11 a.m. or 6–8 p.m.
Facebook : Tuesday to Friday, 1–3 p.m.
LinkedIn : Tuesday to Thursday, 8–10 a.m.
X (Twitter) : Wednesday & Friday, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
TikTok : Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 6–9 p.m.
YouTube Shorts : Thursday to Sunday, 12–4 p.m.
Bluesky: Tuesday to Thursday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 7 – 9 p.m.

Pro Tip: Use scheduling tools like HeyOrca’s — or alternatives like Buffer and Later — "Best Time to Post" feature — or alternatives like Buffer and Later — to get personalized insights based on your actual performance data.

�� Top-Performing Content Types by Platform (with Examples)

Instagram

Reels with trending audio : These are prioritized in Instagram’s algorithm, especially if the audio is associated with high engagement across Reels. Look for audio clips with an upward arrow in the music selector — a sign it’s trending. Examples include popular meme audio, viral soundbites, or remixed tracks from current hits. Think "God forbid I’m scrolling for trends" voiceovers or the "Probably needed a hug" trend with a behind-the-scenes look at your team. Trending audio that aligns with current memes or sounds prioritized by Instagram will always have more reach.

Carousel posts : Use carousels to share step-by-step guides or inspirational quotes. Aim for 5–7 slides with minimal text per slide for best readability on mobile—they encourage swiping, which boosts engagement. Aim for 5–7 slides max for mobile clarity.

BTS content : Show the human side of your organization. For example, a quick clip of team members prepping for an event or celebrating a win.

Facebook

Local stories : Share wins in your community or highlight individuals making a difference.

Short native videos : Try 60–90 second clips like "What we accomplished this month" or a fast Q&A with your team.

UGC (user-generated content) : Feature a supporter photo or testimonial. It feels authentic and builds trust.

LinkedIn

Carousel documents : Upload a PDF as a swipeable post. For example, "5 Ways to Build an Inclusive Brand" in simple, visual slides. Keep it to 6–10 slides for best performance, and aim for minimal text with strong, branded visuals to ensure readability on mobile. Upload a PDF as a swipeable post. For example, "5 Ways to Build an Inclusive Brand" in simple, visual slides. Keep it to 6–10 slides for best performance.

Personal reflections : Share a story about a mistake that turned into a lesson — professional vulnerability often drives the highest engagement.

Live events : Run a Zoom-integrated event directly on LinkedIn for live interaction with your professional audience.

X (Twitter)

Quote tweets and reactions : Respond to breaking news with quick commentary or humor.

Video replies : With the new video response feature, reply to hot takes with a personal video — fast responses win attention.

Memes : Timely, witty, and relatable — just don’t force it. Think: "Me checking my bank account after buying campaign swag."

TikTok

Relatable storytelling : Use "They don't know it yet, but..." to tell an origin story. Repurpose old clips and add current context.

Challenges with trending audio : Join trends like "What is it you’re addicted to?" to showcase a service or value in a humorous way.

Educational content : Break down big ideas into quick, digestible tips with subtitles — make sure it’s easy to follow without sound.

YouTube Shorts

Quick wins : A 30-second tip like "How to boost your IG engagement in 3 steps."

Reaction videos : Film your reaction to a news update or TikTok trend in your field.

Snippets from longer videos : Use Shorts to preview interviews, explainers, or tutorials — and link viewers to the full version.

Bluesky

Image-first content : Posts with clean, well-designed images (especially square or landscape) get better engagement.

Hot takes & opinion pieces : Bluesky’s early adopters love smart, timely commentary. Think thoughtful insights — not viral fluff.

Community vibes : Authenticity reigns. Personal updates, collaborative threads, and light meme culture thrive here.Use Shorts to preview interviews, explainers, or tutorials — and link viewers to the full version.

Final Thought: Consistency Beats Complexity

You don’t need to post everywhere, every day. But you do need a plan that keeps you up to date, on brand, and ready to adapt.

Need help creating a strategy that works with today’s trends — not yesterday’s rules?

Contact CoSolving and we’ll work with you to amplify your impact and help you achieve your goals with smart solutions.

Using Short-Form Videos to Connect with Constituents

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 21:24:56 GMT

Did you know that short-form video content generates 135% more organic reach than static posts?

Short-form videos are revolutionizing how leaders connect with audiences. Did you know that short-form video content generates 135% more organic reach than static posts? With platforms like TikTok attracting over 15 million Canadian users, this format is an essential tool for engaging constituents, building trust, and promoting policies. In this article, we’ll explore 10 practical examples of short-form video use and share 5 essential tips to help you get started.

10 Practical Examples for Canadian Politicians Using Short-Form Videos

Highlight Local Achievements:
Record a 15-second video celebrating a recent success, such as securing funding for a community project.
Example: “Thanks to your support, we’ve secured funding for a new park in Ward 8—stay tuned for updates!”
Address FAQs:
Answer a frequently asked question about your policies or stance in under 30 seconds.
Example: “Affordable housing is a top priority. Here’s how we’re tackling it in our community.”
Day in the Life:
Showcase your daily routine as a public servant to highlight your dedication.
Example: “Join me for a behind-the-scenes look at my day, from community meetings to council sessions.”
Debunk a Myth or Address a Concern:
Use a 20-second video to clarify misinformation or address a trending issue.
Example: “There’s been talk about cuts to transit. Here’s the truth about our plan to expand services.”
Engage with the Community:
Post a video from a local event, asking for feedback or sharing constituent voices.
Example: “Alex from the farmers’ market shared thoughts on our renewable energy plan—what’s yours?”
Thank Supporters:
Create a short video expressing gratitude to volunteers, donors, or voters.
Example: “A huge thank you to everyone who helped us knock on 1,000 doors this weekend—you’re amazing!”
Share Personal Motivations:
Explain why a particular issue matters to you in a heartfelt 30-second video.
Example: “Growing up in a small town taught me the value of community. That’s why I’m fighting for better healthcare.”
Introduce a Policy Initiative:
Launch a new initiative with a concise explanation of its benefits.
Example: “We’re excited to announce our plan for fare-free transit for high school students!”
Participate in Local Events:
Showcase your involvement in local activities like festivals or charity runs to connect with constituents.
Example: “Had an amazing time at the neighborhood cleanup—let’s keep our community beautiful.”
Encourage Civic Engagement:
Post a quick video encouraging people to register to vote or attend a town hall.
Example: “Your voice matters! Don’t forget to register to vote by Friday—visit [website link] today.”

5 Essential Tips for Canadian Politicians Using Short-Form Videos

Keep it Concise and Focused:
Deliver one clear message per video. Focus on a single policy, initiative, or personal story to avoid overwhelming viewers.
Show Personality:
Humanize your campaign by sharing relatable, behind-the-scenes moments or personal anecdotes. Authenticity resonates with voters.
Use Captions and Eye-Catching Visuals:
Ensure your videos are accessible with captions and start with vibrant, engaging thumbnails. Many viewers watch without sound, so captions are essential.
Incorporate Calls to Action (CTAs):
Every video should have a CTA, such as “Visit my website,” “Share this video,” or “Let me know your thoughts in the comments.”
Leverage Trends Thoughtfully:
Participate in popular trends or challenges on platforms like TikTok or Instagram, but adapt them to align with your campaign message and values.

Getting Started and Choosing the Right Platforms

To maximize impact, start with platforms that excel in short-form video content:

TikTok: Perfect for showcasing your creativity and connecting with younger audiences.

Instagram Reels: Great for polished content, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and exclusive updates.

If you need to limit your focus, prioritize TikTok and Instagram—they offer the best flexibility and engagement for short-form videos.

How CoSolving Can Help You Succeed

Using short-form videos effectively takes planning, creativity, and strategy. That’s where we come in! CoSolving specializes in helping Canadian politicians develop comprehensive social media strategies that resonate with constituents. From crafting impactful messages to producing high-quality videos, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Visit www.cosolving.ca to explore our services Contact us via social media or at john@cosolving.ca to set up a consultation.

Let CoSolving help you create a strategy, set goals, and develop a winning plan for 2025.

Make this the year you connect with voters like never before. Let’s make 2025 your most successful year yet!

Top 10 Social Media Tips for Canadian Politicians in 2025

looka_production_170303989 — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:46:15 GMT

In today’s digital-first world, social media offers Canadian politicians a vital platform to connect with constituents, share their vision, and build trust. As we navigate 2025, leveraging social media effectively is no longer optional—it’s essential. Here are the top 10 tips to help Canadian politicians maximize their online presence and engagement:

1. Develop a Strategy with Clear Goals

A strong social media strategy starts with S.M.A.R.T. goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). For example, aim to increase Facebook engagement by 20% in 90 days or achieve 50,000 video views on campaign priorities within a month. Conduct regular social media audits to assess performance and pinpoint areas for improvement. Various tools can help streamline this process and support your monitoring efforts.

2. Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience ensures your content resonates. Develop detailed audience personas that include demographics, interests, concerns, and preferred platforms. Tailor your messaging to reflect Canada’s linguistic and cultural diversity, engaging French, English, and Indigenous speakers. Personas help you craft posts that connect with diverse communities across Canada.

3. Utilize a Content Calendar

Consistency builds trust. Use a content calendar to schedule posts in advance, ensuring a steady flow of high-quality content while leaving room for real-time updates. Incorporate theme days (e.g., #MotivationMonday or #ThrowbackThursday) to bring variety and structure to your strategy. There are various tools available to manage your calendar and keep your team organized.

4. Prioritize Short-Form Video

Short-form videos dominate platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. With TikTok’s 15 million Canadian users, this format is ideal for engaging younger audiences. Use these videos to highlight campaign events, share personal stories, or address voter-centric issues. Eye-catching thumbnails and captions are essential for grabbing attention and boosting engagement.

5. Engage Authentically

Authenticity is key to building trust and credibility. Share behind-the-scenes content, personal anecdotes, and spontaneous moments. Respond promptly to comments and messages to foster two-way communication. Utilize interactive features like polls or Q&A sessions to make constituents feel heard. Ipsos research shows that 85% of Canadians value authenticity in their political leaders, making this a critical element of your strategy.

6. Leverage Emerging Platforms

While Facebook and Instagram remain staples, emerging platforms like TikTok, Bluesky, and Discord offer new opportunities to engage younger, tech-savvy audiences. Experiment with these platforms to broaden your reach. Partnering with micro-influencers or content creators can amplify your message and help build a loyal following.

7. Optimize Through Analytics and Feedback

Data-driven decision-making is vital for social media success. Use analytics to track metrics such as engagement rates, impressions, and audience sentiment. Conduct A/B testing to compare post formats, captions, or styles. For instance, test two versions of a video—one formal and one conversational—to see which resonates better. Adapt your strategy based on these insights.

8. Turn Negativity into Opportunity

Negative comments are inevitable, but they can be turned into opportunities. Address concerns constructively and promptly to demonstrate responsiveness. Develop a crisis management plan with pre-approved responses and escalation protocols to handle online backlash effectively. This proactive approach can transform criticism into meaningful dialogue.

9. Collaborate with Influencers and Advocates

Micro-influencers with niche audiences can amplify your message and enhance credibility. Partner with community leaders, activists, and local figures who align with your campaign values. Host webinars, town halls, or live social media chats to engage directly with constituents and showcase your commitment to community involvement.

10. Invest in Accessibility

Inclusive content maximizes engagement and reflects Canada’s diverse population. Use captions for videos, translate posts into multiple languages, and ensure visuals are optimized for clarity. Accessibility tools can help audit your content to identify areas for improvement. This approach ensures your message reaches everyone, including those with disabilities.

Call to Action: Let’s CoSolve Your Social Media Strategy

Social media success requires a strong strategy, clear goals, and consistent effort. At CoSolving, we specialize in helping Canadian politicians craft tailored social media strategies that deliver measurable results. Let’s collaborate to develop a winning plan, set ambitious goals, and strengthen your online communications for 2025 and beyond.

Contact us today to start building your strategy!

Donor Retention Top Strategies for 2024

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 17:39:32 GMT

Retaining and Stewarding Donors is possibly the most important part of your fundraising plan.

Top 10 Tips for Donor Retention in 2024:

1. Personalized "Thank You" Calls:

Action : Implement a strategy to make personalized "thank you" calls to donors, expressing gratitude and discussing the impact of their contributions.

Example : Design a call script that includes specific details about the donor's support and encourages open dialogue.

2. Handwritten Thank You Notes:

Action: Incorporate personalized handwritten thank-you notes into your acknowledgment process.

Example : Assign a team member to craft sincere and specific notes, emphasizing the unique value each donor brings to the party.

3. Creative Impact Reporting:

Action : Develop engaging impact reports that showcase the tangible outcomes of donors' contributions.

Example : Create visually appealing infographics, videos, or success stories to demonstrate the real-world effects of their support.

4. Communications Calendar:

Action: Establish a communications calendar to ensure regular, consistent interactions with donors.

Example : Plan monthly newsletters, cultivating emails, and updates to maintain donor engagement and keep them informed about ongoing initiatives.

5. Proactive Perks for Donor Retention:

Action: Implement a program offering ongoing perks to donors, based on their lifecycle stages.

Example : Provide exclusive early access to events, special recognition in newsletters, or personalized updates to show appreciation and encourage continued support.

6. Test Your Donation Forms:

Action: Regularly test and optimize donation forms to enhance user experience and increase conversions.

Example: Add monthly gift buttons or tabs to donation forms to boost visibility and encourage recurring donations.

7. Focus on "Streak" Donors:

Action: Engage with "streak" donors who contribute monthly multiple times, addressing their unique needs and preferences.

Example: Create targeted communications specifically tailored to "streak" donors, recognizing their commitment and encouraging monthly giving.

8. Prioritize 2nd-Year Donors:

Action: Develop targeted engagement strategies for second-year donors to build loyalty.

Example: Implement automated series, monthly cultivation emails, and occasional phone calls to foster a strong connection with second-year donors.

9. Build Donor Stewardship Matrix:

Action: Develop a donor stewardship matrix that outlines personalized recognition and engagement strategies based on donor preferences. This should include a plan to thank all donors within 72 hours of receiving their donation.

Example: Utilize various recognition methods such as donor walls, handwritten letters, social media shoutouts, and appreciation videos.

10. Encourage Donor Engagement:

Action: Create opportunities for donors to engage emotionally with your organization beyond financial contributions.

Example: Offer different engagement avenues based on donor types (casual donors, loyal supporters, influencers, highly involved individuals), such as volunteering, special events, or committee involvement.

By implementing these top 10 tips you will enhance donor retention, foster lasting relationships, and ensure sustained support for your cause.

Harnessing AI in Fundraising

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 08:01:53 GMT

In the evolving landscape of nonprofit fundraising, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force, offering innovative tools to enhance fundraising and communication efforts. This guide explores the best free AI tools available for nonprofits, their benefits, challenges, and best practices for implementation, aiming to empower organizations to leverage AI for greater impact.

The Best Free AI Tools for Nonprofits

Nonprofits can access a variety of AI tools designed to streamline fundraising and communications. Notable mentions include: AppealAI: Developed by Funraise, AppealAI is a generative AI tool that crafts compelling peer-to-peer appeals, emails, and social media posts. It utilizes advanced algorithms for donor asks and ensures the security of nonprofit and donor data
ChatGPT: This AI-powered tool revolutionizes task execution within nonprofits, from creating custom donation appeals to automating communications and conducting prospect research
Buffer AI Assistant and Adobe Photoshop with Generative Fill: These tools, among others, help in streamlining internal workflows, enhancing marketing and brand messaging, and boosting productivity

Benefits of AI in Fundraising and Communications

AI tools offer significant advantages for nonprofits, including: Increased Efficiency: By automating administrative tasks, AI allows staff to focus on donor meetings and personal outreach, enhancing productivity
Improved Personalization: AI analyzes donor data to personalize communication, enhancing donor engagement and retention
Data-Driven Decision Making: AI provides insights through data analysis, supporting optimized decision-making, social media presence, and the creation of new marketing channels

Challenges in Implementing AI Tools

While AI presents numerous opportunities, nonprofits face challenges in its adoption: Maintaining the Human Touch: It's crucial to balance automation with personalization to ensure effective donor communication
Addressing Ethical Concerns: Nonprofits must navigate algorithm biases, data privacy, and security issues, emphasizing the need for ethical AI practices.

Effective Ways to Use AI in Fundraising

Nonprofits can leverage AI in several impactful ways: Content Generation: AI tools like ChatGPT can assist in creating diverse content, from email subject lines to grant applications
Personalized Donor Engagement: AI's data analysis capabilities enable targeted fundraising appeals and efficient donor segmentation
Streamlining Administrative Tasks: AI solutions reduce time spent on routine tasks, allowing more focus on donor engagement

Best Practices for Implementing AI in Fundraising Campaigns

To maximize the benefits of AI, nonprofits should adhere to best practices: Maintain the Human Touch: Use AI to enhance decision-making and outreach but ensure personal interactions remain at the core of donor relationships
Ensure Transparency and Ethical Use: Secure donor consent, be transparent about AI use, and address ethical considerations proactively
Leverage AI for Content Generation and Personalization: Utilize AI for creative content creation and to personalize donor engagement based on data analysis

In conclusion, AI tools offer a pathway for nonprofits to enhance efficiency, personalization, and data-driven decision-making in fundraising efforts. By carefully selecting tools, addressing challenges, and following best practices, nonprofits can effectively leverage AI to achieve their missions more effectively.

This blog post was written with the assistance of Generative AI.

Latest Best Practices for advertising on TikTok

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 11:12:42 GMT

TikTok has continually evolved, offering new features and integrations that significantly impact advertising strategies. One of the most notable recent developments is the collaboration between TikTok and Adobe, introducing the TikTok Creative Assistant within Adobe Express. This integration marks a significant step forward in content creation and optimization for TikTok ads, providing users with AI-powered assistance directly within a widely used digital content creation tool.

Latest Best Practices for Advertising on TikTok

Capture Attention Quickly

The first few seconds of your TikTok ad are crucial. With users scrolling quickly through their feeds, your ad needs to stand out immediately. Engaging visuals, compelling music, or an intriguing start to a story can make users stop and watch your ad instead of scrolling past .

Embrace TikTok's Unique Style

TikTok has a distinct culture and style, characterized by creativity, authenticity, and engagement with trends. Ads that perform best on TikTok often don't look like ads at all. They blend seamlessly with the content users are already enjoying, using the platform's native features such as filters, effects, and music .

Leverage Trends and Hashtags

Trends and hashtags are the lifeblood of TikTok, driving visibility and engagement. By tapping into existing trends or creating your own, you can significantly increase the reach and impact of your ads. Incorporating popular hashtags can also help your content get discovered by a broader audience.

Optimize for Mobile and Sound On

TikTok is a mobile-first platform, and its users typically have sound on. Ensure your ads are optimized for vertical viewing and incorporate sound creatively to grab attention. Whether it's a catchy tune, interesting sound effects, or compelling voiceover, sound can dramatically enhance the effectiveness of your ads.

Utilize TikTok's Creative Assistant in Adobe Express

The integration of TikTok's Creative Assistant in Adobe Express is a game-changer for advertisers. This AI-powered tool can help with brainstorming ideas, refining scripts, and providing guidance on TikTok's creative best practices. It offers insights from top-performing ads and hashtags, supporting the entire content creation process.

Stay Authentic and On-Brand

Authenticity resonates with TikTok users. Your ads should reflect your brand's true voice and values, engaging users in a genuine way. Partnering with influencers who align with your brand can also add an authentic touch, leveraging their creativity and established audience on the platform.

Test and Optimize

TikTok's advertising landscape is dynamic, with user preferences and platform trends constantly evolving. Regularly testing different elements of your campaigns, such as creative formats, messaging, and targeting options, is crucial. Utilize TikTok's updated attribution measurement capabilities to better understand the impact of your ads and refine your strategy accordingly.

Conclusion

Advertising on TikTok offers a unique opportunity to engage with a vast and diverse audience in creative and impactful ways. By following these best practices and leveraging the latest tools like the TikTok Creative Assistant in Adobe Express, brands can create compelling ads that resonate with users, drive engagement, and achieve their marketing objectives. Stay informed about the latest TikTok updates and continuously adapt your strategy to maximize your advertising success on this dynamic platform.

This blog post was written with the assistance of AI.

Best Practices in Fundraising in 2024

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 11:12:42 GMT

Fundraising is always evolving but what remains clear is the need for a fundraising plan in every organization to capitalize on as many actions as possible. It is key to be donor centric in your plan and to value every stage of the donor cycle, especially stewardship as donor retention is more important than ever.

Best Practices in Fundraising in 2024

Assess Your Fundraising Program

Conduct a thorough Fundraising Assessment to evaluate the effectiveness of your current fundraising program, identify opportunities to increase revenue streams, and determine where to focus time, energy, and resources.

Success begins — and ends — with how you treat your donors

Do you have a donor stewardship plan?
Are you making a special effort to thank first time donors.
Are you segmenting your lists to personalize all fundraising efforts?

Address Donor Retention and Burnout

Acknowledge the challenges of donor retention and the burnout of nonprofit workers. Develop a comprehensive fundraising program that emphasizes donor stewardship and engagement to address these issues.

Personalize Donor Acknowledgments

Provide personal and timely acknowledgments to donors to show appreciation and foster a sense of connection with the organization.

Encourage Planned Giving

Promote long-term giving strategies such as bequests, endowments, and legacy gifts to ensure the future sustainability of the organization.

Diversify Fundraising Channels

Utilize a variety of fundraising channels to reach a broader audience and cater to different donor preferences.

Leverage Fundraising Technology

Invest in fundraising software to efficiently manage donor data, streamline fundraising efforts, and enhance donor engagement
Employ AI in your fundraising efforts, utilize ChatGPT, AppealAI, CoPilot, Gemini and other free tools.

Build Strong Donor Relationships

Develop deeper relationships with donors by offering a range of engagement options beyond monetary donations, such as volunteering and social media sharing

Optimize Allocation Control

Give donors more control over how their contributions are used within the organization to increase their sense of empowerment and investment1

Embrace Multichannel Marketing

Implement a multichannel marketing strategy to ensure consistent messaging across various platforms and to provide a cohesive donor journey1

Utilize Data for Strategic Planning

Analyze current data to set clear goals for donor retention, annual operating revenue growth, and participant engagement. Use this information to inform campaign plans and reduce donor churn1

Focus on Impactful Storytelling

Craft compelling narratives that highlight the impact of donations, creating emotional connections and encouraging generosity1

Celebrate Successes and Innovate

Recognize the importance of celebrating achievements and continuously seeking innovative fundraising strategies to attract new donors and deepen supporter connections

Monthly Fundraising Themes

Create a Fundraising Calendar with monthly themes to focus on specific strategies, such as securing the second gift, stewarding monthly givers, and building an inspiring online donation form.

Revive Retro Digital Marketing Strategies

Consider reintroducing retro digital marketing and fundraising strategies, such as infographics and postcards with QR codes, which have shown high engagement rates1

Multi-Year Giving Agreements

Encourage multi-year giving to provide a predictable revenue stream and highlight the long-term benefits of these pledges in communications

This blog post was written with the assistance of AI Tools.

Press Release Best Practices

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 11:12:42 GMT

To write an effective press release in 2024, it's important to understand the structure and purpose of a press release, as well as the best practices for writing and distributing it.

What is a Press Release?

A press release is an official statement issued to the news media and beyond to announce something newsworthy. It serves as a tool for organizations to communicate with journalists and the public, and it typically follows a standard format to ensure clarity and ease of use for reporters.

Why Write a Press Release?

Organizations write press releases to create brand awareness, improve SEO, communicate with stakeholders, manage crises, and celebrate achievements. Press releases can also help businesses grow by attracting media attention and providing valuable information to the public.

When to Write a Press Release?

Press releases are appropriate for various occasions, including product launches, organizational changes, partnerships, rebranding, awards, and events. The timing of the release is crucial to ensure the news is relevant and timely.

How to Write a Press Release?

To write a press release, follow these steps:

Write a compelling headline : Use action verbs, be specific, and keep it short to grab attention.
Add a subheadline : Provide additional context that supports the headline.
Include a dateline: State the city and date of the release.
Craft the introduction : Answer the "who," "what," "why," and "where" in the first paragraph.
Develop the body : Offer a tempting quote and provide valuable background information on the subject.
Include a boilerplate: Summarize the organization's mission and relevance.
Provide contact information : Ensure journalists can easily reach out for more details.
Proofread : Check for errors and clarity before publishing.

Best Practices for Press Release Distribution

Timing : Send your press release at a time when it's most likely to be read, avoiding weekends and late Fridays. While there's no perfect time, building good relationships with journalists is more important than the exact timing.
Personalization : Tailor your pitch to the journalist's interests and the outlet's audience.
Format : Use a standard press release format to make it easy for reporters to find the information they need.
Distribution Channels : Utilize wire services, email campaigns, social media, and your company's website to distribute the press release.
Follow-up : After sending the press release, follow up with journalists to ensure they received it and to offer additional information if needed.

Tips for Press Release Writing

Newsworthiness : Find a unique angle or tie your news to current events to make it more appealing.
Clarity : Write in a clear, jargon-free language that can be understood by a general audience.
Conciseness : Keep the press release concise and focused on the key messages.
Quotes : Include quotes from key stakeholders to add a human element and credibility.

When it comes to writing a good press release the most important aspects are: content quality, relevance, and strategic distribution to maximize the impact of the press release.

This blog post was written with the assistance of AI tools.