Pizza and fundraising… what in the world do they have in common?
There’s a small pizza place in our town. It began life as a smaller off-shoot of a chain. The pizza was ok. Mostly we went because it was conveniently close.
A few weeks ago, it became obvious that the place was under new management. We confirmed our guess when the new owner introduced himself. We had a nice little chat. We learned this was a second career for him and that he’d spent most of his life as an executive in financial services. It’s obvious he’s taking his little pizza place very seriously. And that he’s very happy doing so.
He asked for our names. He asked us to share a bit about ourselves. He checked back with us a few times throughout our meal – just to be sure we had everything.
Welcoming people in is what fundraisers do, too
Now we get a big smile and a welcome every time we come in. That’s about once a week. And I watch him treating every customer as he treated us. Even the group of high school students – who many other downtown businesses seem to think are just getting in the way. Our pizza guy is friendly, welcoming, and respectful – regardless of the customer.
And it occurred to me that I’m going to think about him as I advise clients on their fundraising. He doesn’t have the power of a big chain. He’s taking orders and bussing tables himself. But he’s doing it joyfully. And he’s making every single customer – whether they come in for a big meal or a drink – feel terrific.
I always go back to the places where I’m treated well! Thanks for giving me something to chew on Mary!
Diana
馃檪 Nicely done.
And you’re welcome.
I respect any business owner who appreciate their customers, particularly teenage customers. Treat teens with the same respect as any other customer and they will have some very loyal customers. (news flash: Teens spend a lot of money on food!) . I suspect other parents who see him treating teens well will be happy to support his establishment also (whether it was their teen or not) You have to give respect to get respect. Kudos to him. 馃檪
Yes, absolutely. Wed. nites in town, there’s a band playing. (Usually something awful). But too many adults are obviously annoyed that kids are also coming downtown then. As if they don’t belong. Some are doing things they shouldn’t… many are just meeting friends.
This guy’s got the right idea. I definitely appreciate it!
(Thanks for commenting!)
I have said it many times: “Fundraising is all about customer service, not about sales.” Making the donor feel welcome, important, and involved in what you do is how you get them coming back year after year. If you just take their money without asking for their input, you will lose them to someone else who does these things.
Absolutely!