Nonprofit writing takes time to master. Most nonprofit communicators consider themselves to be good writers. However, what really sets apart the excellent writers of the nonprofit world is expertise in the seven different types of nonprofit writing.
In this post, we’ll give you a great overview of these nonprofit writing styles, along with links to more details on each writing style.
1. Microcontent
Microcontent refers to the short but powerful pieces of writing you find in headlines, subject lines, captions, and tweets.
2. Storytelling
Nonprofit storytelling refers to narratives about those involved with your organization that include characters, details, emotions, and plot.
3. Supporter-Centered Copywriting
Supporter-centered copywriting includes newsletters, appeals, and thank-you copy that delivers repeated joy and gratitude to donors.
4. News Writing
News writing is clear, factual writing found in press releases, reports, and blogs.
5. Conversion Copywriting
Conversion copywriting is persuasive writing that encourages immediate action, including clicking, donating, joining, etc.
6. Lifestyle Writing
Lifestyle writing is casual yet engaging content that includes short lists and articles as well as social media content.
7. Thought Leadership
Thought leadership writing includes credible and opinionated ideas that position the person or organization as an expert and leader.
So, What’s Most Important?
Generally, the odds are you are great at a few of these styles. Still, you could improve on the others. In the 2019 Nonprofit Communications Trends Report, nonprofit communicators said they were most confident in news writing, storytelling, supporter-centered copywriting, and lifestyle writing, in that order. Correspondingly, they were less confident in writing microcontent and writing for conversions and thought leadership.
Nonprofits who are effective at community engagement report having more knowledge in microcontent, news writing, donor-centered copy, and storytelling, in that order.
Nonprofits who excel at brand building and reputation management were more likely to report knowledge in storytelling, news writing, microcontent, and donor-centered copy, in that order.
Want Training on the Seven Nonprofit Writing Styles?
We have an online self-paced course as well as an intensive, interactive workshop.
Finally, of course, keep reading this blog. I’ll be sharing more tips and best practices soon.
