Best Campaign Practices: Tips & Techniques to Make Your Campaign Stand Out
At Crossroads United Way, we’re committed to helping you lead a successful campaign. Whether you’re new to organizing or a seasoned veteran, the following best practices will help you engage your team, increase contributions, and foster a sense of unity.
1. Build a Strong Team
A successful campaign starts with a strong committee. Recruit a diverse team that represents various departments and shifts within your organization—marketing, HR, accounting, and more. Regular meetings and clear delegation of tasks, such as payroll coordination, marketing, and event planning, will keep everything on track.
2. Lock in Logistics
The most effective campaigns are brief but impactful. Plan a campaign that runs for 1–2 weeks, with a clear kickoff and a ceremonial closing. Set specific contribution goals with the help of Crossroads United Way, and ensure everyone knows what they’re working toward from the start.
3. Engage and Rally the Team
Encourage your team to participate by offering ways to Give and Volunteer. Host kickoff events that bring people together, promote volunteer opportunities, and use educational events to show the real-world impact of their contributions. Consider creating competitions between departments to further drive engagement.
4. Promote Your Campaign
Visibility is key. Use a mix of communication tools like emails, intranet posts, flyers, and company newsletters to keep the campaign front and center. Be creative with your approach: decorate common areas, hold contests (like a children's art competition), and provide frequent updates on your campaign’s progress.
5. Boost Participation
Offer fun incentives to increase participation. Hold raffles for those who submit pledge forms, or organize daily prize drawings for employees who have pledged. If you reach the company goal, celebrate with a party!
6. Increase the Average Gift
Encourage employees to increase their contributions by offering perks like extra PTO, casual days, or “sleep-in” passes. Set leadership giving goals to recognize those who give at a higher level, and ask employees to consider increasing their donation by as little as $1 a week.
7. Utilize Existing Resources
There’s no need to reinvent the wheel! Visit our Campaign Toolkit for ready-to-use materials like brochures, posters, and pledge forms.
8. Wrap It Up with Recognition
When your campaign ends, make sure everyone knows the results. Ensure pledge forms are submitted on time, and take a moment to thank your colleagues and contributors. Recognize their efforts with a thank-you luncheon, prize drawings, or personalized messages.
9. Keep the Connection
Stay in touch with Crossroads United Way throughout the year. Arrange regular check-ins to update us on your company's activities and learn more about how your contributions are making a difference.