What are you really telling donors? Last week, my friend Clay wrote a terrific piece about the importance of data in your fundraising program. You can – and should – read it here. (Don’t worry, I’ll wait.) Clay makes an important argument for not overlooking the “little” things. Hand data entry over to a novice, […]
Why sincere is better than clever
We have all made mistakes. That might be the most universally correct statement ever. (Or not!) Admitting to them can be embarrassing. But it can also be educational. Today, I want to use early mistakes of mine to underline why we should avoid the temptation to be clever when we can be sincere instead. At […]
Year-end tips for the beginning of the year
Can we talk about year-end fundraising now? Because maybe thinking about the crazy days while they’re still fresh will help make 2020 year-end easier. I’ve been involved in a conversation on Twitter recently with other nonprofit fundraisers and a few smart donors. The conversation veered from “My inbox is exploding!” and “I gave three months […]
Why you should share the love today
It’s the end of the year. Organizations are mailing and emailing and phoning their supporter – and those they hope will become supporters. Finance staff are hovering over fundraising staff as envelopes are opened. Everyone is a little keyed up. But where is the love? There’s been something of an ongoing conversation about donor thanks […]
Happiness is the gift you give
When your work means communicating with donors – either in person or through the mail, phone, email or even social media – you probably think about the gifts you will be given for your organization. But have you given thought to the gifts you can give? Humility When you choose to approach your donors as […]