Influence matters a great deal in the achievement of fundraising goals. The more influence an institutional leader, a gift officer, or a volunteer has with a donor or prospect, the greater the opportunity to encourage generous responses from that donor or prospect. People give to people. But the process of enhancing one’s interpersonal influence is…
Month: December 2020
Committing To Quiet
Last night – Christmas Eve – we had snow in East Tennessee. This is a uncommon occurrence for us but a welcome one, especially given the holiday. Falling snow is mesmerizing to watch as it dances toward the ground under the watchful eyes of street lamps. And I spent some time bundled up on our…
7 Words That Hinder Your Advancement Success
Donate – inviting people to “donate” is akin to asking for hand-me-downs. People donate used items. They donate old clothes, or used cars. Generally speaking, donations are second-thought give-aways, not charitable investments in your mission. Use give, giving, and gift, instead. Appointment – advancement professionals don’t have appointments with donors. We have visits or meetings. …
Strategy vs. Enthusiasm
How should we go about inviting Mrs. Howard to make the lead gift? You might be inclined to respond to this strategy question by seeking to know more about Mrs. Howard as a person and as a donor. You would probably want to know more about her history with your institution, her financial capacity, the…