Keep People Informed: The Foundation of Trust

Episode 4

Why proactive communication, especially during silence, builds trust and keeps supporters engaged.

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Silence erodes trust. Communication builds it.

In Episode 4 of Relationship Strategy Made Simple, Kitanya expands on the people-centered KPI of Keeping People Informed, offering practical guidance on how proactive updates strengthen nonprofit relationships long before a crisis or ask arises.

This episode examines why communication gaps (often caused by busyness, understaffing, or waiting for perfection) can unintentionally signal disinterest or disengagement. Through real-world examples involving donors, volunteers, board members, and community partners, Kitanya shows how even brief, imperfect updates can reinforce trust, confidence, and connection.

Listeners will learn:

• Why transparency matters even when plans are still in progress

• How silence creates uncertainty—and how updates reduce it

• Simple, repeatable communication rhythms that maintain trust

• How to “close the loop” so supporters see outcomes, impact, and appreciation

  
  

With actionable examples and a clear weekly challenge, this episode reinforces a core truth of nonprofit work: proactive communication is not extra, it’s relationship maintenance.