You are not unique - sorry

It is crucial that workers in the charity sector are committed to their cause. They should be motivated by the work they do and the difference it makes. Lets face it – it is likely to be demanding work and not usually well paid.

It is also important that charities try to stand out when writing their funding bids. Applying for grants is an increasingly competitive process.

The problem is that these two things often combine in funding bids with the result that just how special the charity is, is overplayed. I read lots of applications that say:

“we are the only ....”

“our service is unique”

“there is no one else offering this support”

“our unique approach”

And because I read lots of applications, my response may often be: “no, you’re not – I visited another charity doing similar work just last month”; or, “you are the 5^th one using this approach that I have read today”. Without backing up your claim, you have caused me to question not just this but all your assertions.

The trick is to stand out but avoid over-claiming. Rather than saying you are unique, back it up with some detail. You can still stand out with the quality of your work and the outcomes you achieve.