Get More Hands on Deck (Part 2): Reaching Out

In part one of this series, Randy Wootton talked about assembling a team of volunteers to help strengthen Boyer Children’s Clinic (we’re fellow board members there).  In his piece he makes networking and recruiting volunteers sound as natural as breathing. 

I, on the other hand, had to gear up a bit. 

Over the years I’ve focused on running businesses, and have not been particularly purposeful about developing meaningful connections in my business network.  It doesn’t come naturally to me. 

However, when I remind myself that the potential beneficiary of the networking process is not me, but the kids and families that Boyer serves, I feel less awkward about reaching out.

After joining the Boyer board, I started identifying business relationships and purposefully connecting with them to try and broaden my potential impact at the organization. I usually ask general questions around how things are going for them and get their perspective on charitable activities.

SVP and Boyer (one of their clients is pictured on the left) usually come up at some point.  SVP as a network where you can gain perspective on the non-profit sector, and Boyer as an example of becoming involved in a non-profit where there is a personal connection to its mission (as well as an example of what a well-run non-profit looks like).

There seems to be a lot of intellectual curiosity around non-profit organizations, and most people have a genuine interest in becoming involved in organizations that have a clear purpose around serving others. 

During my conversations I note people's perspective and potential to contribute in some way, whether it be money, expertise, or network.  I track these contact points and regularly discuss them with Boyer's Executive Director, Mike Stewart, identifying ways to involve companies and individuals. 

Over time I’ve found that these conversations not only have the potential to create impact for Boyer.  They also help develop personal relationships in my business network.

Want to Learn More?

If you’d like to chat with Mike about inviting your network to get involved with an organization your care about, feel free to contact him on LinkedIn, via email, or by phone: 206.793.4063.  You can also check out SVP's work Boyer Children's Clinic here.

What About You?  Any Stories or Tips to Share?

Does anyone else have stories or tips to share about overcoming an aversion to networking and recruiting people for your cause? Or perhaps examples of how you've leveraged your network to strengthen a nonprofit you care about?