A while back, I wrote about fundraising and introverts.
And a while before that, I gave a presentation about the same topic.
Of course, that’s because I am an introvert.
Are you? Do you work with people who are?
Then I’ve got a deeper dive into the topic for you! Brian Saber recently released a book, Fundraising for Introverts, Harnessing Our Power For What Matters.
Brian was kind enough to share the book with me before he released it. And if you want to understand a good chunk of the population, you’ll want to read it, too.
Energy exchange
Being introverted doesn’t mean you’re shy. You might be or might not be. But it does mean that you recharge your batteries by being alone. Our extroverted friends are just the opposite: being around people charges them up.
I like people. I like being around them. As a fundraiser, I know how important it is to understand people, too.
And I spent a good part of my younger years on a stage, performing. Loved every second of it!
But after “peopling” I’m pooped. I need time to think, to read, to be alone.
If all this sounds familiar, congratulations! You’re probably an introvert.
Less talk, more listen
I love that Brian goes into depth about just what makes introverts great fundraisers. He’ll teach you about asking styles and learning what works best for you.
But one superpower of introverts that I’ve always thought was underrated was our ability to just listen. We might think of fundraising (or sales, for that matter) and worry about our “elevator pitch” or other talking tasks.
But guess what? Everyone wants to be listened to more than they want to be talked to (or at!). When you’re happy to listen, really listen, people feel much more comfortable with you.
And if that donor is also an introvert? You both can breathe a sigh of relief. Relax. Ask questions. Listen carefully. Soon you’ll both feel more at ease. It’s your gift!
You’ll learn a lot and you’ll make it possible for them to consider giving without pressure or worry.
That’s also the key to long-term donor cultivation… it’s really not about “a” gift. It’s about a relationship. One where the donor chooses to have a relationship with your cause.
Special event tips for you
Brian also talks about special events. If you’re tensing up a little just reading that, it’s ok. We’re going to get through it all just fine. Brian has the tips for you here, too.
His technique? Arrive early. And I agree. Walking into a room of people already involved in conversations is intimidating. Be there to welcome them, instead.
Find the people who also seem a bit overwhelmed by the crowd. They’ll be thrilled someone came to talk to them!
Better yet (and this is genius, I think), contact a few people who will be there before the event, just to say you’re looking forward to seeing them. Smooth the path.
(And if after the event you beg off the after-party, that’s okay. Take care of you!)
Fundraising for Introverts: a skill you’ll need to succeed
Whether you’re involved in major gift fundraising, annual giving, or special events, understanding your donors matters.
And to do that well, you need to be a student of human psychology. Learning more about introverts and extroverts will give you a good jump on knowing how to approach different people.
If you’re an extrovert, it’s important to understand how the other half thinks. And if you’re an introvert, it’s important to understand yourself as well as your extroverted colleagues and donors.
When people feel seen and understood, they’re more open to giving. So make it part of your mission.
You can get your hands on (see what I did there?) Brian’s book here. Do it.
Maybe beg off that endless staff meeting to read it?
Photo by Elena Koycheva on Unsplash
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