Giving is Good
. . . is our institution raising money? . . . are we seeking that next job? . . . is our team making decisions about fundraising goals? . . . are we making any decision? When we make decisions based on perceived or real weaknesses, lack, fear, pressure to get results, or anxieties we…
A giving day communications plan becomes more effective as we clarify our preferred audience(s) and craft customized messages that encourage their generosity. The message in our calendar year end direct mail invitation becomes more fruitful when we thoughtfully-construct segments and speak directly to why their support matters. The annual communications theme for our organization grows…
Yes, I agree that you have the closest, most knowledgeable relationship with that particular donor. Yes, I know you have met with them more than anyone else at the organization. Yes, I recognize that your stewardship of their giving has been personalized and thoughtful. Yes, I know they have increased their annual giving over the…
While not a fact I can point to, my experienced guess is that no one invited their first major gift without some level of apprehension or even anxiety. No one gave their first presentation at the annual stewardship event in front of hundreds of donors without some amount of nerves showing up. No one picked…
All great advancement work is about reminding people. Reminding alumni of the life-directing experiences they had while on campus those many years ago. Reminding former patients of the life-saving care and hope they received when their health was uncertain. Reminding parents of their children’s new and affirming joys when introduced to culture, music, faith, sports,…
Our professional effectiveness, our leadership promise, our influence, even our general well-being can be surmised based on which word of this question we emphasize. For example, if we regularly think (or say), “What can I do?” with a sense of exasperation or a feeling of powerlessness, our outcomes will not be as robust and positive…
Making assumptions can get a bad rap. When we assume the worst, we run the risk of the outcome being self-fulfilled. And when we assume too much, we sometimes overlook the fundamentals, the easy, or the obvious. But making assumptions can be helpful, too. For example, when trying to establish a first-time visit with a…
Take a look at your work-related to-do list for today. Rate each item with a 1, 2, or 3. A rating of”1″ means the item has a direct connection to your annual goals. When you complete these items, you are positively impacting the achievement of your annual goals. A rating of “2” means the item…
As nonprofit leader, its important to keep in mind that advancement is not the same as philanthropy. We can get so focused on raising charitable gifts that we forget the real outcome we seek – namely, to advance the mission of our organization. Engaged volunteers help advance our mission. Aligned sponsors help advance our mission….
I believe our work is to get money from people. Versus, I believe our work is to invite and encourage people to experience the goodness of giving. I believe most people will only do what is in their interests. Versus, I believe most people want to help others. I believe wealthy people are selfish and…