Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the various roles Strategic Management Consulting can play in my organization?
SMC is a facilitator, motivator, recruiter, and a “pitch in and help” team player. Often, the board and/or staff of an organization have identified where they want to be but aren’t quite sure how to get there. SMC facilitates your discussions, focusing your financial and programmatic planning to enable you to reach your goals. At other times, a plan may be in place — but you’ve stalled — either in your fundraising, or volunteer participation. We help you get back on track. We can also help you build the right team, of volunteers and professionals. And, on occasion, you just need an extra pair of hands.
How can I justify the cost of a consultant when we’re trying to raise money?
A fresh perspective helps to unite and motivate your team of volunteers and professionals to achieve your goals. The objectivity of a consultant brings clarity and focus to your fundraising efforts, builds consensus and energizes your volunteers to be successful fundraisers.
Can SMC consultants make a solicitation to my major donor prospect?
A volunteer usually makes the best solicitor because they have a credible relationship to the nonprofit. SMC’s job is to help you make your best case and to give solicitors (volunteers or staff) the confidence to make the right request in the right context. With proper preparation and strategic thinking, we help you make the strongest solicitation possible.
We need money now. Do we have to do a study before we can fundraise?
Fundraising for any organization is a two pronged effort — raising enough money for today so that there is a tomorrow! SMC can immediately review your current approach to maximize your effectiveness. Simultaneously, we can identify what initiatives to undertake to grow your organization.
Can a boutique firm like SMC address all of our needs?
In most cases, yes. Our team of consultants has decades of nonprofit and business experience, diverse skill sets and a common thread of legitimate practicality and strategic know-how. With our network of strategic alliances, we can cover everything from pro forma development to direct mail programs, theater planning to board development and training.
With whom will we be working?
In many big firms, you only see your senior consultant at periodic meetings, working primarily with associates or junior consultants. Because SMC is a small firm, you will always be working with a principal.
