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Do you want to really connect? Show, don’t just tell me.

How do you connect with donors? Show more. Yes, this is one more post about the importance of emotion in your fundraising. This time, let’s look at images, not words. There is no faster way into our brains than an image. When we read, our brains recognize images as words. We’re constantly translating. (And remember […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal letters, appeal writing, emotional contagion, fundraising appeals, fundraising images 6 Comments

They challenge your fundraising appeal. How should you respond?

Everyone has an opinion about your fundraising appeal… I do lots of copywriting. Newsletters, email appeals, and especially fundraising appeals. I love it. But over the years, I’ve also noticed I get the same questions. You too? Maybe I can help you head a few off. 1. Does the letter really have to be two (or […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal letters, copywriting, writing for donors 11 Comments

Hope or fear – which powerful emotion should you use?

Hope or fear… picture a year-end appeal. The goal isn’t met. Time is running out. Your appeal urges donors to act right away, or bad things may happen. “Can’t we keep it upbeat? You know, focus on the good stuff?” a board member will ask. “We know that’s more effective, right?” Well… I don’t think […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal letters, emotional fundraising, negative messaging 2 Comments

You don’t want to be that guy

You don’t want to be that guy Imagine someone coming to your door. You open it and hear: Hey babe! Here’s why you want to go out with me. First, I’m a great person. Just last year, I was listed as one of the 40 greatest guys under 60. In fact, I’m 24% better than […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications, Fundraising Tagged With: appeal letters, donor newsletter, donor-focused 11 Comments

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Recent Posts

  • How to Build Your Own Donor-Centric Fundraising Strategy
  • Please don’t go! 5 ways to win donor hearts again.
  • Can we stop this in its tracks, please?
  • Do you want to really connect? Show, don’t just tell me.
  • Are you making it hard to give?

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