Ask a Board member, an Advisory Council member, or other engaged major donor why he gives to your institution. Almost universally, you will hear how he believes in the mission of the institution. Or, how the institution made an impact on his life or on the life of someone dear to him. Or, how he…
Month: December 2014
Where Is The Money?
The most important component of what we call “prospect research” is not finding those individuals, families, foundations, and corporations with money. It’s not even finding those individuals, families, foundations, and corporations with money and an interest in your mission and vision. In most instances, you already know who has the money. Sure, there are modest-living…
5 Things Successful Advancement Pros Don’t Do
Over the years, I have worked with, provided counsel to, or simply observed thousands of advancement officers. The good ones stand out, mostly because they behave in ways that less effective advancement officers don’t. For instance, the best advancement officers ask more questions. They listen more. And they genuinely like learning about people more. To…