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Turning a big, bold strategic plan into real, tangible action can feel like trying to move mountains—especially in the fast-paced, resource-limited world of nonprofits. But with the right approach, you can not only execute your plan but do it in a way that’s effective and sustainable, making a meaningful difference in your community.
Ahead of my webinar with CharityVillage, Living Your Plan: Moving from Strategy to Action, we’re diving into some key dos and don’ts for action planning to help your nonprofit bring your strategic vision to life. Spoiler alert: It’s easier than you think when you know where to focus!
Do: Set clear, achievable objectives (and make them fun!)
First up, let’s talk goals. It’s tempting to set sky-high targets, but effective action plans start with clear, measurable objectives. When you break your big vision down into smaller, bite-sized pieces, not only does everything feel more manageable, but you also create little wins to celebrate along the way.
For example, instead of saying, “We’re going to boost outreach,” try something like, “We’ll increase newsletter subscribers by 20% in the next six months.” With that kind of clarity, your team knows exactly what to aim for, and you’ll know when you’ve nailed it.
Don’t: Assume everyone gets it
Just because the plan makes sense to you doesn’t mean it’s crystal clear to everyone else. One of the biggest mistakes nonprofits make is rolling out a plan and assuming everyone understands it perfectly. Don’t leave your team guessing!
Communicate, communicate, and then communicate some more. Whether through team meetings, shared project tools, or visual dashboards, make sure everyone is aligned, knows their role, and can track progress. When everyone is on the same page, magic happens.
Do: Get stakeholders involved from the start
Want your action plan to really take off? Involve your key people (those actually doing the work) early and often! Whether it’s staff, volunteers or board members, getting input from the people who fully understand the ins and outs of the work will make your plan stronger—and much more likely to succeed.
Try holding brainstorming sessions, assigning tasks, or even hosting focus groups. Not only will this give you valuable insights, but it’ll also foster a sense of ownership and commitment among your supporters.
Don’t: Ignore the data (or the feedback)
It’s easy to get stuck in a “this is how we’ve always done it” mindset, but if the data doesn’t back it up, it’s time for a change. Keep track of key metrics like community engagement, donor retention, and volunteer hours. These numbers will tell you what’s working—and what needs tweaking.
Also, stay open to feedback. Your team and community might see things you’re too close to notice. If something isn’t going as planned, don’t hesitate to make adjustments. After all, flexibility is the name of the game!
Do: Make the most of your resources
In the nonprofit world, resources can be stretched pretty thin. So when you’re crafting your action plan, be smart about where you invest your time, money, and people.
Instead of spreading yourself too thin across a dozen initiatives, focus on one or two that will really move the needle. Prioritize high-impact areas and assign tasks based on your team’s strengths. With this approach, you’ll get more done and create better results—without burning everyone out.
Don’t: Forget to train your team
Your action plan is only as strong as the people executing it. Give your team the tools and training they need to succeed. Whether it’s brushing up on new fundraising techniques, learning how to manage projects, or diving into social media strategies, investing in professional development is a must.
When your team feels equipped and empowered, they’ll be far more effective in turning your plans into action—and that’s a win-win for everyone!
Do: Create a realistic (but ambitious!) timeline
A great action plan includes a solid timeline. Break down tasks into manageable chunks, assign deadlines, and make sure someone’s responsible for each step. This will keep things moving and give you a clear picture of where you’re at.
While it’s important to be realistic, don’t be afraid to challenge your team with ambitious (but doable) timelines. Keep momentum going and push forward, but also give yourself some breathing room if things take longer than expected.
Don’t: Forget to celebrate the wins
It’s easy to keep your eyes on the prize and forget to celebrate along the way. But taking the time to recognize small wins will keep your team motivated and focused. Did you reach a fundraising milestone? Host a successful event? Take a moment to cheer, share it with your supporters, and keep the positive energy flowing.
Wrapping it all up
Moving from strategy to action doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll be well on your way to creating an action plan that actually works—and makes a real difference.
Want more tips on how to take your nonprofit to the next level? Don’t miss Living Your Plan: Moving from Strategy to Action, where I’ll dive into practical strategies for turning big plans into tangible results. Register now!
About the author
Megan Foster is the founder of Mosaic Engagement, helping nonprofit organizations build better strategies, foster engagement, and develop strong leadership. Megan is a Certified Professional Facilitator with a Masters in Strategic Organizational Change. With over a decade of experience, Megan is passionate about helping nonprofits thrive and achieve their missions.
Find out more about how Mosaic Engagement can support your organization by visiting Mosaic Engagement.