Don't Just Manage Through Difficult Times. Lead.

In a recent article on the Philanthropy Journal website, Pier C. Rogers gave some great advice about ensuring that you're not just managing through difficult times but also leading and inspiring others to action. Here are some of her pointers:

• Know your budget inside and out.
• Anticipate and see trends in programs and funding.
• Create budget scenarios - and plan for potential reductions.
• Communicate regularly with key stakeholders (board, volunteers, funders, etc.), determining the appropriate message for each.
• Where cuts are necessary, involve staff in analyzing budgets and recommending reductions. Line staff often know the most pain-free ways to reduce expenses.
• Know and preserve the organization's core. Reduce or eliminate programs that are not critical to your mission before other cuts are made. 
• Use financial dashboards to provide guidance in planning.
• Always maintain a positive perspective and message.

Read the full article here.

Additional Resources:

20 Questions About Your Organization's Financial Health.

More on Managing Expenses.