The most effective advancement folk don’t necessarily have access to the best technology. They don’t have the largest budgets. They probably don’t work for the biggest organizations or institutions. They aren’t the smartest or the most well-educated. They aren’t even the most enthusiastic always.
Instead, there is a simple-ness to being especially effective in our work.
Here is a list of 3 simple practices anyone can employ to become more effective. The best advancement professionals:
- Show up – This isn’t a short-term behavior. They’ve been around for a while. They participate and, therefore, they know people. And, people know them. They are involved in the community in ways that matter. They have earned trust because of their presence.
- Have a perspective – This isn’t self-serving. They don’t look for ways to make work and life easier for themselves. They deeply believe in the mission – the cause. They believe in the power of giving. They don’t view themselves as professional fundraisers as much as they view themselves as helping strengthen a community they care about deeply. And, importantly, they are willing to share these perspectives.
- Invite others – This isn’t an inconsistent practice. They ask questions consistently. They listen. They are less concerned about getting a “no,” and more concerned about missing an opportunity to extend the invitation. They aren’t focused on the transaction of giving as much as they are focused on strengthening relationships with others.
Show up. Have a perspective. And invite others.
When we put these 3 practices on repeat, we end up becoming far more effective over time.
Simple, but not easy.
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