The loss of a key person in a Non Profit can have a huge impact if the organization is not prepared. Too many times non profits unexpectedly lose their Pin Lady. Invariably, the next person to take over knows nothing about the job and doesn’t have the same enthusiasm for the pins as the previous Pin Lady, thus resulting in loss for the Non Profit as fundraising pin sales decline.
Cross training people in an organization lessens the impact of loss until a permanent replacement can be found.
Prospecting for who the next Pin Lady will ensure continued success for your non profit. Believe it or not, finding that person is easier than you might think because Pin Ladies share some similar characteristics. First, the Pin Lady LOVES Lucinda pins. She may very well be your best customer or even that Lucinda Pin Collector. She probably owns more than 10 Lucinda Pins. There is a good chance she’s the person who wants to be the first to see the box of new Lucinda Pin arrivals. Secondly, the potential Pin Lady candidate is a person who enjoys talking to people and socializing. The future Pin Lady is not afraid to ask others to help if it’s for a good cause. Most importantly she is committed to your mission.
Now that you know the attributes of a Pin Lady someone may come to mind right away. Go with your instincts and approach her with the idea of helping you with the pins. Something as simple as pinning the pins to the promo cards or attending an event with you where the pins are for sale is a good first introduction. Invite her into other pin opportunities so she can become familiar with how it all works. As she is more comfortable ask for her input on ordering pin styles. I promise, when the time comes that you or your current pin lady transitions, you’ll have a back up person who will be WILLING AND ABLE to help you in a pinch or even better, step in permanently.
Minimize your risk. Start looking now. The future of your Pin Revenue depends on it!
Happy Fundraising,
Lucinda
