Today’s nonprofit leaders face an unprecedented staffing challenge: between lingering pandemic effects and rising FMLA leaves, communications teams are stretched thin.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Last year, the marketing team at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) faced that perfect storm of constraints. With a new department leader settling in, seasoned veterans transitioning out, and a key team member on FMLA leave, PHS had to navigate a critical period with reduced support.
This is where short-term support can be a game-changer, and at Iris Creative, we’ve seen how a little interim help can keep nonprofit operations steady without missing a beat.
Why FMLA is Different—and How Short-Term Support Can Help
FMLA is a win for employee well-being, allowing people to take essential time for themselves and their families without losing their job.
But, for you as a leader, the absence of a team member for weeks or months can be especially challenging, particularly when it’s a vital role left unfilled for a quarter of the year. And unlike with resignations, there’s an indefinite aspect: the person might not return, or the timing may be uncertain.
PHS was in a similar position. So, they used funds from the vacant salary to bring in Iris Creative for temporary support, keeping both key initiatives and daily tasks on track.
Covering content creation to design updates, we ensured a consistent brand presence during this transitional period. Here’s a snapshot of some projects we supported:
- Articles for the website
- Converting podcasts into blog posts
- MailChimp header graphics
- Event flyers and welcome signs
- Media kit updates
- Social media infographics
- Master slide template
- Award submissions
Our support allowed PHS to maintain brand standards, and keep communicating, even amid staffing gaps. By covering both content and design, they got two needs fulfilled through one resource, rather than having to manage a slate of disconnected freelancers.
Keeping Your Projects on Track
For PHS, effective project management was the key to success. We made sure gathering materials wasn’t a burden for their team — after all, interim support should lighten the load, not add to it.
With a master to-do list, weekly 30-minute check-ins, and Dropbox for file sharing, we helped PHS manage project after project seamlessly over six weeks. Not only did we complete everything on their list, but we also tackled two additional projects they’d wanted to complete for ages. (Stay tuned for our “Make it Work” checklist at the end of this series.)
Seamless Brand Experience—Inside and Out
At Iris Creative, our AMIE (Audience, Messaging, Image, and Experiences) framework guides everything we do. Sometimes we’re creating brand, but we’re always thinking brand.
Whether it’s designing materials for a one-time campaign or providing consistent support over time, our team combines strategic thinking with brand management to ensure your communications stay strong and unified.
Today, PHS has a talented new art director in place and a team ready to take on future projects. We’re still collaborating on larger initiatives like their annual report and their digital publication, GROW, because even with a full team, outsourcing big, time-intensive projects can be the best move.
Let’s Keep Your Marketing Flowing
If you’re navigating a staffing gap, let’s talk about how Iris can help keep your communications flowing. With the right support, you can maintain momentum without overloading your team. Reach out today, and let’s discuss how we can make it work.
