Sometimes, an organization and its team may forget the importance of the goals for which the organization was originally established. At that point, it’s important to touch on some stories related to the organization to redirect the organization's path and motivate the team to embrace the core values of the organization. In this regard, these stories should address five key themes.

  1. The Story of the Organization's Emergence

Typically, the founders of non-profit organizations, as well as the core workers at its heart, are aware of the story behind the emergence of the organization in the first place. Conversely, the details of this story, which often involve the organization's goals and values, are often absent from the minds of new volunteers and board members, as well as potential funders. Here, it is essential to have a strong link between the story you tell and the values upon which the organization was founded.

In fact, it is important for everyone to be aware of the circumstances that led to the establishment of this non-profit organization, and this awareness should not be limited to the founders. In the same context, all activities, irrespective of their fields, stem from a deep belief in a cause. Therefore, there must be a clear perception among the organization's workers and team members about the cause that led to the establishment of the organization and motivate them to adhere to its main mission.

  1. Telling Stories About the Workers and Volunteers in the Organization

In this regard, it should address how the organization's goals are implemented through the commitment of its volunteers and workers. For instance, you might tell the story of a team member in the organization and the achievements they have accomplished in service of the organization's noble mission, along with their dedication to work. Meanwhile, ensure that the story is somehow connected to the organization's goals.

  1. Avoiding Bias Toward a Specific Person

Avoid repeating the same story about the same individual in every public forum. In this regard, be sure to mention all individuals who have achieved a significant accomplishment and acknowledge the abilities of the other team members to do the same. Thus, you will motivate everyone to adopt the organization's goals and put in their efforts to manifest that in reality.

  1. Client Stories

Such stories often circulate among non-profit organizations. However, the important thing about these stories is to let the team know that you are telling them because the client's success is considered a success for the organization itself.

  1. Stories About Other Organizations

In this context, the head of the organization can tell stories about other organizations, provided that they share the same goals. Additionally, they can be used as a model for organizational success in a common area to achieve their own goals.

How Can These Stories Become an Integral Part of Work?

Undoubtedly, you have many stories about the successes of those working at the core of your organization, in addition to stories about other organizations. But what is the right time to discuss these stories? Should you wait for a specific occasion? In fact, you should make these stories an integral part of your daily work.

In this frame, why not start your next meeting with the team in the organization by narrating a three-minute story, where you discuss an organization called penandnapkin. Indeed, this non-profit organization focuses on decorating homes and providing essential supplies for individuals who were homeless.

Here is an example that illustrates this story:

“Before we start our meeting, I would like to tell you that you helped a small child in El Cajon with his homework. His mother, named Natalie, told me that when she and her family moved into this house, her little boy Victor discovered a dinosaur picture on the wall of his small room, and he was delighted. In fact, Victor rushes home every day after school to sit on the chair that you (members of the organization) provided for him, to look at the dinosaur painted on the wall, while happily doing his homework. Indeed, this is the goal that our organization aims for; we plant hope.”

When you share a success story of a client on social media, on the organization's official site, or in a message directed to a donor, you must be well aware that this achievement is the fruit of the efforts of all members of the team, who continuously strive to achieve the organization's goals. Therefore, the essence of this message should reach all team members.

On the other hand, the head of the non-profit organization should blend the stories of workers and volunteers regarding how the organization’s tasks are completed and transform that into good training material specific enough. Generally, you can summarize stories during a conversation with a team member and ensure they are linked to the organization's goals. Moreover, any member working within the organization’s team can benefit from these stories by reminding themselves and others of the importance of the goals that the organization aims to achieve, such as:

  • How the organization emerged, and how the circumstances of its inception can influence your personal way of daily work?
  • What your colleagues excel at, and how their work and behavior reflect the organization's goals, and what motivates you to put in the same effort?
  • The success of clients is very important to you, and you should share that with all your colleagues.
  • How do other organizations achieve their goals?

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Source:Nonprofit Hub