Think data is dull? Too often, data isn’t given the weight it deserves in our fundraising programs. Buy the cheapest donor management system. Give data entry to the intern. Just tell me the bottom line; I don’t have to understand how to run reports. That’s a serious mistake. Because in fundraising, data isn’t the opposite […]
How to create a donor communications calendar
How well are you communicating with your donors? A communications calendar is a combination of messaging and timing. You can create the most amazing appeal letter, but if it’s the only time your donors hear from you this year, you aren’t communicating well. Or you can communicate constantly, but still miss because your channels or […]
I don’t owe you: why I’m not giving back
Makes me sound awful, doesn’t it? “What a selfish person”, you’re thinking right now. But let me explain. When you ask people to “give back” by making a gift to your organization, you’re setting up a relationship based on obligation. And transaction. Think carefully about whether that’s really what you want. Are you looking for […]
How to reach donors with a personal touch
I’ve said it before. Good fundraising is always one to one. That’s true even if you’re communicating with thousands. It should always feel one to one. That should always be your aim, even if it takes a little more effort. But when is the last time you really made a personal effort? OK, my major […]
Why somebody will never save your organization
A case for personal fundraising Somebody rarely volunteers. Somebody is easy to ask. Somebody is distant, polite, impersonal… safe. And Somebody never gives. Your organization has a mission – a problem to be solved. The solution almost always requires money. To raise that money, you turn to people who might care about your cause. Maybe […]