In the past month our company has been solicited for major charitable gifts or sponsorships at least three times – by email. From clients and students of our workshops. People who have heard us talk about donor-centric fundraising strategies over and over again.
How did we respond, you ask? I have one word for you: DELETE.
I know, I know. We’re the BE KIND consultants. The DO GOODERS! Shouldn’t we have called and coached?
I understand the impetus for this type of approach. Maybe people are thinking they can skip the formalities. We’re in the industry. We have a personal or business relationship. We’re casual. Or maybe they’re afraid we’ll judge their approach. Maybe they’re afraid of rejection.
Is this how people are managing their relationships with their donors? If so, I’m surprised we’re raising any money at all.
How is it that we can know without a shred of doubt that face-to-face solicitation is the most effective, least costly method of fundraising, and still refuse to do it? Lack of time? Fear of rejection?
Whatever the reason, we have to start taking this seriously and making it a regular priority and habit. Two things you can do to support yourself in this:
1) Read The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business, by Charles Duhigg, for some great ideas about how to build new habits.
2) Attend our upcoming workshop: CULTIVATE: The Art and Science of Major Gifts. Friday, October 17 2014. Click here to register.
Good advice as always, and duly noted 🙂 see you Friday!