I talk to non-profit fundraisers every day about how to raise more money.
We talk about prospecting, cultivation and asking.
We talk about donor stewardship.
We talk about events, direct mail and online giving.
And when we’re done, I am occasionally asked one final question…
“Joe, what’s the single biggest thing I can do to increase our fundraising this year?”
My answer is the same every time: “Talk to your donors.”
Writing letters is important… but not the most important. Sending e-mails is important… but not the most important. Newsletters, websites, events and silent auctions are all important… but not the most important.
The most important thing for your non-profit — the single best way to increase your organization’s fundraising success — is talk to your donors… to personally talk to them. This means picking up the phone to call your donors and prospects, or meeting with them in person.
To cultivate them…
To build a better relationship with them…
To ask them for support…
To ask them for referrals…
Nothing — and I mean nothing — can compare with the power of a personal conversation between you and your donor or prospect. So what are you waiting for? Pick up the phone. Get out the door. Talk to your donors, either in person or on the phone. It’s the most important thing you can do to ensure your non-profit’s fundraising success!
Photo Credit: Ryan Heaney
