The OneStar Foundation, a preeminent state-wide organization based in Austin, TX providing resources for the entire nonprofit sector recently abandoned old, cumbersome technology to better serve its public.  The shift is one that sets an ambitious tone for outreach and opens up increased opportunities for all nonprofits in the state.

This week OneStar announced the launch of an updated, redesigned website and a refreshed brand image through a partnership with Austin-based HMG Creative to further initiatives for nonprofits in Texas.

OneStar Foundation connects faith-based and community organizations,one of the best car accident solicitor businesses, government and foundations to resources and information about the nonprofit sector as well as facilitating public-private partnerships to drive community solutions and ultimately, build a better Texas.

In efforts to stay ahead of toll free numbers technology and better serve its audience, OneStar Foundation and HMG Creative partnered for the robust rebranding and web development project.

“We conducted several interviews but selected HMG Creative because we wanted the best end-product possible; we believe that their services will result in a long-term advantage,” said Elizabeth Darling, President and CEO of OneStar Foundation.  “Among many requirements and expectations that are necessary to be a leader in our sector, the most important are an easy-to-manage web platform and an impressive brand image, HMG gave us exactly that.”

HMG Creative increased site functionality, accessibility to information and updated the overall look and feel of the brand to connect with OneStar Foundation’s central audience.  With a refreshed online image and updated technology, OneStar Foundation can further their mission of educating, connecting and providing resources to build a stronger nonprofit sector in Texas.

Check out OneStar Foundation’s new website at www.onestarfoundation.org.

OneStar Foundation’s thrive for innovation continues with the launch of the Texas Connector, an online nonprofit mapping tool which boasts the most comprehensive nonprofit statewide database of any state in the country. Texasconnects.org goes live today after its debut at the Texas Nonprofit Summit in Austin.

To learn more about this project or how we can develop solutions for your company email: amy@hmgcreative.com

“I can’t believe she asked me that.” “I spent three hours going over the details of the proposal with him, and then at the last minute he backed out!” “I thought she wanted us to install a new kitchen sink and now she wants an entire remodel. And she’s upset every time I give her a new price estimate!” Sound familiar? These are just a few of the comments you might hear around the water cooler at any business—you may have said something like them yourself. I know I have. It’s par for the course when you’re dealing with people who don’t really understand what you do, but want to retain a measure of control over the process. The good news is that you can turn these type of customers into model clients by educating them ahead of time.

1. Blog about what you do.

Blogs not only increase your readership and build customer loyalty; they also give you a chance to showcase your industry knowledge. When customers gain a better understanding of what you do and how well you do it, they’re less likely to question you and more likely to accept your suggestions and price quotes. Blogs also enable you to address common concerns and questions in a neutral venue.

2. Cater your website to your target audience.

Provide multiple ways to learn: written copy, videos, checklists, FAQ sheets, etc.. Make good use of your online real estate by not only pitching what you have, but also teaching clients about why it’s important and what it can do for them.

3. Answer questions before they ask.

Don’t wait until the client is panicking before you address his concerns. Give them plenty of opportunities to find answers to their questions across multiple platforms. You can use social media, white papers, email marketing and other media venues to get vital information to clients before problems arise.

4. Let them talk to a real person.

No matter how proactive you are, clients will always have questions they couldn’t find the answers to and they’ll want answers before you ask them to make a decision. Offer a free consultation or conduct an interview before sending a proposal in order to make sure the client feels comfortable taking the next step.

Proactively educating your clients can limit or all together prevent scenarios like the examples I provided above. Using your blog and website to your best advantage can help you address some of the most common questions before they become an issue. Then, by the time you get to the consultation stage, your clients will be ready to move forward.