Do you “have to” fundraise? Or do you “get to” fundraise? And is there really a difference? I would argue, yes. There’s an important distinction between things you HAVE to do and those you GET to do. Fundraising and giving are two of those things where people straddle that line -- but shouldn't. Do You "Have To" Fundraise? People who … [Read more...]
The Easiest Thing You Can Do Every Day to Raise More Money
What's the easiest thing you can do every day to raise more money? Pick up the phone and call a donor. That’s it. Just one phone call. Every. Single. Day. It’s the easiest way to raise more money, and yet, so few fundraisers actually do it. It’s even okay to leave a message -- something you'll probably end up doing most of the … [Read more...]
5 Ways to Follow Up with Your Donors When They are Unresponsive
Have you ever asked for a gift, and then crickets? The would-be donor doesn’t get back to you for days, weeks, or even months? You’ve left messages and sent emails. You don’t want to bother them, but you could really use that gift. You’re not sure what to do. This scenario is more common than you might think. The question is, what … [Read more...]
5 Reasons Why Robots Make Bad Fundraisers
Robots Make Bad Fundraisers... at least, according to Steven Shattuck, Chief Engagement Officer at Bloomerang. And I agree with him. In his debut book, Robots Make Bad Fundraisers: How Nonprofits Can Maintain the Heart in the Digital Age, Shattuck makes the case for personalization, individualization, and using technology … [Read more...]
How to Introduce Yourself to Donors so They’ll Gladly Meet with You
The other day I received an email from a development director who asked: “How should I introduce myself to new donors?” She was talking about donors she'd personally never met with before. She went on to clarify her question: “How do I introduce myself so that raising funds is not somehow clouded in jargon or simply glazed over in … [Read more...]
8 Fundraising Basics that Covid-19 Can’t Break
During good times and bad, some organizations raise a lot of money -- and other organizations don’t. The organizations raising the most money, generally speaking, rely on best practices, technology, and the latest tools and resources available. Conversely, struggling organizations are stuck with well meaning, but fearful board and staff … [Read more...]
Fundraising Success Stories for Raising Money RIGHT NOW During COVID-19
Are you at an organization where you’re actively raising money right now, or are you taking a “wait and see” approach? We’re many weeks into the Covid-19 crisis, and I can’t believe I’m still having the same conversation with Executive Directors, day-after-day, week-after-week. Too many EDs still aren’t sure this is a good time to raise … [Read more...]
9 Unusual Ways You Can Spread Joy Remotely to Staff and Donors
The last two months have been filled with stress, anxiety, and fear. And while we may not have all the answers (or any answers) for what lies ahead, I believe it’s time to look towards the future, take action, and create joy and happiness whenever possible. In my experience, fundraising is 30% skill and 70% attitude. So if you’re … [Read more...]
Boosting Fundraising | How to Build Meaningful Relationships
The following is a guest post by Steven Shattuck, Chief Engagement Officer at Bloomerang and the guest host on a recent Coronavirus Townhall session. Nonprofits like yours rely on donations now more than ever before. With the pandemic shaking up society and a turbulent economy, organizations are doing everything they can to maintain … [Read more...]
Is It OK to Ask Donors for Gifts During the Coronavirus Crisis?
We’re several weeks into this global health and economic crisis and I find that fundraisers are still asking the same question over and over. The question is: Is this a good time to be asking donors for money? Is it inconsiderate to be asking for money? My answer has been consistent throughout the crisis: NOW is the best time to be … [Read more...]
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