Andrew Olsen has done our whole vertical a service by compiling a list of the most common mistakes that nonprofits make. Whether you are new to the nonprofit world, or have been involved for decades, there is something for everyone to learn in Olsen’s new book.
My personal favorite is Mistake #75: Asking at the Wrong Time. Nonprofits now have access to sophisticated algorithms that can really help them know when they should and when they shouldn’t be asking their donors. It’s a mistake to continue to rely on antiquated RFM modeling to choose when your organization should be communicating.
Do yourself a favor and order a copy. It’s like giving yourself an instant MBA in nonprofit management.