5 Ways Nonprofits Are Using Google Hangouts

Feel like you need a stronger connection to your supporters? You should consider using Google+ Hangouts to strengthen and solidify their support.

Recently I used Google+ Hangouts – On Air for a media interview, and I must say – it was so easy! I was surprised at how intuitive and effortless it was to connect with someone who lives 1000s of miles away. So, let’s dive into how you can use Google Hangouts or Google+ Hangouts – On-air to maximize fundraising.

1. G+ Hangouts: Hangout with Staff in a Meet + Greet

Instead of just meeting with a single donor, meet with key people and stakeholders, or as many who can be seen in the screen! So you’ve multiplied a hangout from 9 to 90 if you like!

Now, if you want to turn a hangout into media for your website (so others can see how personable and awesome you are!), you can record your hangout by using Google Hangouts- On Air. You’ll see the ‘Broadcast’ button that will make your video LIVE. Once you’re finished and you end the Broadcast, Google pushes it to the YouTube account connected to the Gmail you logged in with. From here you can download the video to your computer, edit it, and re-upload it to your website as a squeaky clean version with the works.  (And if you feel a bit queasy about the live stream, you can go back and delete it from the newsfeed).

The live broadcast can act as a simulcast for your hangout. Anyone can tune in!

2. G+ Hangouts breed authenticity between you and supporters

We live in an experiential economy that demands you render authentic experiences. If you individualize fundraising, what do you get? You get a supporter who needs to experience your cause. Video conferencing does just that.

It’s a way for potential donors to get to know you, your nonprofit, and the ins and outs. Be careful, you’re letting your supporters so close you that they might become obsessed and tattoo your nonprofit’s name on their arm! (true story, I’ve seen this happen).

3. G+ Hangouts give individualized attention to supporters

According to Strengths Finder 2.0, if you are an Activator as I am you are infectious and you easily convince people of the value of things you enjoy once you’re ‘sold.’

Whether you are the interviewer or the interviewee, Google+ Hangouts will (if it’s a homerun hangout!) instantly evoke passion for your nonprofit. Target people of passion who will infect others with the mission and credibility of your nonprofit.

4. G+ Hangouts cross borders

Maybe your nonprofit is abroad or you hope to open another office overseas. These hangouts make it possible to enhance communication and collaboration with video. It can also take news from the field right to the ears of those who support you. That beats any snail mail or email update you can get!

5. G+ Hangouts are efficient & resourceful for fundraising

The most obvious advantage to using this feature is its resourcefulness. All you need to have a hangout is the internet, time, and people. You can extend your reach with hardly any effort and at no cost to you. This is a win-win situation.

Google+ hangouts have an immediate impact on supporters because there’s little room for interpretation. It’s like giving your supporters an injection of your nonprofit. They just might become addicted. Oops

Make a few sober people addicts today. Get started now!