On May 4th, ConnectVA will present the only day-long social media conference in the region for nonprofits, government and community-based organizations! You will learn best practices, trends, and need-to-know information to connect your organization with social media to drive change. The day will feature field experts, panel discussions and a presentation and workshop from internationally-acclaimed Master Trainer, Beth Kanter, author of the “Networked Nonprofit” books.

ConnectVA’s Social Media for Nonprofits Conference 2016
Becoming a Networked Nonprofit, featuring Beth Kanter

05.04.16 | 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM | $85 – $95

Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen | 2880 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060

Register here!

Below is a conversation we recently had with Sarah Milston – who is leading a breakout session on “Avoiding a Social Media Disaster.” Read on to learn more about her!

What are the Top 3 things you want people to know about your business?

The Spark Mill is a consulting firm based in Richmond focused on affordable and accessible services for people and groups who desire change all across Virginia. Our marketing line of business is designed for the nonprofit market focused on inexpensive solutions to help people wearing multiple hats take advantage of storytelling and visuals in a way to get the word out about the amazing things nonprofits are doing in the world.

What do you think the most important social media “skill” is and why?

The most important social media skill is the ability to tell a dynamic story to get people involved and to use the power of ambassadors to do the telling.

If you had to choose only one social media tool to use each day, what would it be and why?

I would use Canva everyday – a simple and well designed image is worth its weight in gold and can be used across all other platforms.

Why should attendees come to your workshop?

While harnessing the power of voices is important, proactively planning for problems is even more important. In an age of quickly spreading news and the consumer’s ability to comment any and everywhere, knowing how to quickly manage a challenge is an important part of managing your brand.

AVOIDING A SOCIAL MEDIA DISASTER 

Learn how to avoid or deal with a social media nightmare by developing a crisis management communication plan.  Chocked full of case studies, this session will help you prepare you and your staff for the right mindset when something goes wrong in your organization.

Sarah Milston, CFRE, MPA

After a decade working in nonprofits focused on fundraising, marketing, and board development, Sarah  left to build The Spark Mill – a varied and diverse consulting practice motivated by the belief that nonprofits can and do save the world.  Whether a guide, instigator, or knowledge base, Sarah is passionate about connecting the dots and giving people the right plan and tools to make stuff happen.  Over the last nine years as a consultant, Sarah has worked with over 100 associations, nonprofits and businesses to help at the intersection of creativity, strategy, and action.

Follow Sarah on Twitter @TheSparkMill