By Kyle Behrend — an automations and AI consultant dedicated to educating and empowering nonprofits with AI through NFPs.AI.
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as a game-changer for organizations across all sectors, including nonprofits. In fact, nonprofits are often best positioned to leverage and benefit from this technology. However, the sheer breadth of AI’s applications can be overwhelming, especially for those in the nonprofit space where resources are often limited and staff members wear multiple hats. Embracing a curiosity mindset and using a two-word hack can help nonprofits navigate the AI landscape and unlock its full potential.
Before diving into strategies, let’s clarify what we mean by AI. At its core, AI refers to computer systems designed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks include learning, problem-solving, language processing, and decision-making. For nonprofits, AI can automate routine tasks, analyze large datasets, personalize donor communications, and much more.
The vast array of AI applications presents a paradox of choice: with so many options, where do we begin? This abundance can lead to decision paralysis, preventing organizations from taking that crucial first step. However, there’s a powerful phrase that can help overcome this hurdle and set you on the path to AI integration.
Two simple words can unlock a world of possibilities: “How can.”
This phrase is the key to adopting a curiosity mindset, which is essential when exploring AI. By asking “How can…?” questions, we open ourselves to new ideas, accept failure as part of the learning process, and create opportunities for innovation.
Here are some examples of how this approach can be applied:
- How can I be more open to exploring AI?
- How can we leverage AI within our nonprofit?
- How can we make our meetings more efficient using AI?
- How can we make ideation more fun with an AI tool?
The best part of this is AI can help you brainstorm and answer these questions.
To begin your exploration, try the below prompt with an AI language model like ChatGPT. If you are new to AI, watch this video that shows how to create a ChatGPT account and navigate the interface.
“Hi, my name is [insert name]. I work as a [insert role] at [insert type of nonprofit]. How can I leverage AI to do my job more efficiently and effectively?”
This prompt provides context and initiates a conversation about AI opportunities specific to your role and organization. From there, you can delve deeper into each suggestion or ask follow-up questions like, “How can I use AI for [specific task]?”
The curiosity mindset can lead to unexpected places. Consider this real-world example:
A nonprofit experimenting with an AI-powered chatbot for their website encountered a common AI challenge: hallucination, where the AI provided links to non-existent resources. Instead of abandoning the project, they pivoted. They implemented the chatbot in their internal Slack channel, where the team began using it to draft social media posts, leveraging its knowledge of their content.
Even though the chatbot still occasionally hallucinated, this became an opportunity for the team to identify gaps in their resources and create new content. This success came about because of a curiosity mindset. By remaining open, exploratory, and innovative, asking themselves, “How can we still use AI?” they found an unexpected solution.
The key to unlocking AI’s potential in your nonprofit lies in embracing a curiosity mindset. By asking “How can…?” you open doors to innovation, efficiency, and new possibilities.
Remember, AI doesn’t have to be the answer to every problem, but it can provide valuable solutions and insights. Start small, be open to experimentation, and don’t be afraid of failure – it’s all part of the learning process.
Turn this knowledge into action.
Begin by writing down three “How can…?” questions relevant to your role or organization. Then, use the prompt provided earlier with an AI tool like ChatGPT. Share your experiences with your team and continue to explore, learn, and innovate together.
In the world of AI and nonprofits, all we need to do is ask, “How can we make a difference?”
Ready to dive deeper? Download NFPs.AI’s ‘A Beginner’s Guide to AI for Non-Profits’ eBook now. Packed with video tutorials, AI tool recommendations, hands-on exercises, and more, it’s your comprehensive guide to mastering the ‘How Can’ mindset and unlocking AI’s potential for your organization. Don’t miss out – get your free copy today!
