Offer the obvious stuff
So the hearts and minds have now been captured. But depending on CSR resources committed to the partnership, companies will be looking for the obvious: what practical things can you can offer as a charity?
This may include employee engagement, fundraising ideas and volunteering opportunities, as well as an account manager, challenge events and a plan of action.
Outline a plan to show how you’ll engage with employees at key sites in the early months. After all, a company may offer matched funding but remember: it’s the employees that usually raising most of the funds.
Real motivation comes from two sources: feelings and things.
The best feeling to leave with employees is a challenge to make a difference. Whatever the fundraising target set by companies, aim to beat it.
The best thing you can show employees is impact. If an employee wants to support you with payroll giving, what will their fiver a month go towards? Even if the money does go into a general pot, an illustrative breakdown on how money would be spent, if ring-fenced, goes a long way. It could mean piloting a new project, supporting research or additional staff.