13 Ways Nonprofits Can Effectively Leverage Social Influencers

Collaborations between influencers and brands are everywhere these days — and nonprofits are starting to see the benefits, too. Influencer marketing offers flexibility, creativity, and access to new audiences — all while helping nonprofits make the most of limited budgets. But before diving into a partnership, it’s important to build a thoughtful strategy that ensures the collaboration supports both your mission and your reputation.

Members of the Forbes Nonprofit Council shared their best advice for making influencer partnerships work effectively and authentically:

1. Focus on Meaning, Not Metrics
   Avoid chasing clicks or likes. The most valuable influencers take time to understand your cause, listen to the communities you serve, and share your message with integrity.

2. Start With Your Own Community
   Don’t overlook your staff, volunteers, and supporters — they’re often your most passionate advocates. Their authentic stories can be more powerful than a paid promotion.

3. Empower Your Leadership
   Before seeking outside influencers, make sure your own leaders are visible and vocal about your mission. A strong personal brand can attract new donors and partners.

4. Find True Alignment
   The best partnerships come from shared purpose. Choose influencers who genuinely connect with your values and can creatively express your mission through their unique voice.

5. Lead With Shared Values
   Pick influencers based on alignment, not follower count. When they believe in your cause, their audience will too — building trust that lasts longer than a single campaign.

6. Invest in Relationships
   Long-term, trust-based relationships with influencers lead to more authentic advocacy. These partnerships build credibility and expand your reach organically.

7. Encourage Personal Storytelling
   Have influencers share their own experiences with your organization — through videos, testimonials, or social posts. Local influencers and youth voices can have a particularly strong impact.

8. Tap Into Podcasts
   Appearing on an influencer’s podcast is a great way to tell your story in an open, engaging way. It brings energy and reach to your message.

9. Invite Influencers to Events
   Having influencers participate in galas or public programs can attract new audiences and inspire ongoing community support.

10. Create Ambassador Programs
    Structured ambassador programs with clear guidelines and ongoing engagement empower influencers to share authentic stories that strengthen your credibility.

11. Let Go of Some Control
    Influencers connect best when they speak in their own authentic voice. Be open to their creative expression, even if it’s not exactly how you’d phrase it.

12. Build Trust Before Visibility
    Choose voices that are already trusted in their communities. When they share your message, it deepens both your reach and your credibility.

13. Don’t Forget Your Board
    Many board members already have strong online networks. Highlighting their stories and support can increase exposure and demonstrate leadership engagement.

In short, influencer partnerships can be a powerful way for nonprofits to amplify their message — but authenticity, alignment, and trust must come first. When done right, these collaborations don’t just expand reach — they strengthen credibility and community connection.

Source:  Forbes