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This is why you can’t find a great development director

Great development directors are precious. It seems there is a constant demand for development directors. Turnover is a tremendous problem. People wonder why they can’t find a great one. In their study, Underdeveloped, CompassPoint, and the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund found “high levels of turnover and lengthy vacancies in development director positions throughout the sector.” […]

Filed Under: Blog, Fundraising Tagged With: Development director, Fundraising 43 Comments

12 human quirks you can use to fundraise better

We humans are quirky. You know fundraising is never as simple as asking for donations. Behind your ask is a world of study. We think about our language. We consider exactly what we’re asking for and why. And we keep the language clear and simple. We’re straightforward about the need and use stories to illustrate […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications, Fundraising Tagged With: donor communications, Fundraising, neuropsychology Leave a Comment

10 Metrics to Track Your Fundraising Campaign Success

Measure your fundraising to succeed. Nonprofits often follow rules regarding fundraising appeals to maximize their success. For example, industry experts will tell you that personalization is key to stewarding donor relationships. And storytelling is a surefire way to tug at your audience’s heartstrings. However, the most reliable source of information about what works for your […]

Filed Under: Blog, Fundraising Tagged With: Fundraising, Fundraising metrics Leave a Comment

Integrating Peer-to-Peer Fundraising with Annual Campaigns

If you’re looking for a compelling fundraising campaign idea to supplement your nonprofit’s annual fundraising efforts, look no further than peer-to-peer fundraising.  What makes peer-to-peer fundraising such a great strategy to support annual fundraising campaigns? This fundraising style allows your nonprofit to:  Let’s explore five strategies your nonprofit can use to integrate peer-to-peer fundraising into […]

Filed Under: Fundraising Tagged With: Fundraising, peer-to-peer Leave a Comment

Why your great story leads to a better world

If you’ve been wondering why I’m making such a fuss about stories, read on. Here’s the thing. Insiders (that would be you, nonprofit hero) understand all the details. We eat, sleep, and drink our organizations’ missions – the “why” of our work. But almost none of your donors or might-be donors do. They have their […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: donor communications, Fundraising, storytelling Leave a Comment

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  • 4 Ways to Turn One-Time Donors Into Long-Term Supporters
  • Looking for attention? Why the details matter
  • This is why you can’t find a great development director
  • The new way to fundraise? Trust your mail.
  • Donor identity: How do your donors see themselves?

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