I do a lot of training with non-profit organizations to help them achieve their fundraising goals. I have also served on a lot of non-profit boards and make myself available to the leaders of non-profit organizations. Those who’ve spent very much time with me at all will all tell you the same thing: I talk [...]
When you are meeting with your donors do you really let them say what they want to say? Or do you have an agenda? Are you just waiting for the moment to guide the conversation the direction that you want to go. “When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen.” -Ernest Hemingway
You were excited to get the meeting. The donor you visited had been supporting the organization for a long time. You put together a compelling proposal. Sure, you were asking for more than the donor had ever given. But this gift would allow the organization accomplish big, bold things. But the donor turned down your [...]
We remember better the things that we say much better than the things that are said to us. Think about your most recent conversation. It’s likely that you have a better recall of the things that you said than the things that were said to you. As a major gifts fundraiser, if you spend all [...]
