Beta Conversations: Real Questions, Real Coaching

What if you could ask your toughest donor questions and get real coaching—instantly?

We built Clarkbot so you can do just that.

We trained it on everything we’ve ever published—podcasts, trainings, coaching calls, frameworks. Then we gave it Clark’s actual voice and coaching style. And now it’s live.

In this post, I’m sharing some real conversations early users had with Clarkbot—along with my own commentary on what it got right, what I’d add, and why I believe this tool matters.

Because whether it’s a donor visit or a handwritten note, there are moments when your instincts need a sounding board. Now, you’ve got one.

1. “What should I write in a handwritten thank you note to a first-time donor who gave at our gala?”

Clarkbot replied with six points:

  1. Start with Gratitude – Be specific and heartfelt.
  2. Acknowledge the First Gift – Celebrate it.
  3. Tie to Impact – Show the mission in action.
  4. Personalize It – Mention details from the event.
  5. Invite Them In – Encourage further connection.
  6. Close Warmly – Add that second layer of thank-you bread.

Then, Clarkbot ended with:

“This note isn’t just a thank-you—it’s the start of a relationship. Make it personal, make it meaningful, and make it unforgettable.”

My take? It’s solid coaching. When I edit Clarkbot’s responses, it’s not because they’re wrong. It’s to add nuance. I’ve never disagreed with anything it said.


2. “What are some good fundraising habits to build?”

Clarkbot gave five:

  1. Daily Donor Touchpoints – Bake relationship-building into your day.
  2. Strategic Listening – Listen 75%, talk 25%.
  3. Pre-Meeting Prep – Know your goals, plan your questions.
  4. Moves Management – Scan your list. Ask: What’s next?
  5. Self-Reflection – Think like an athlete watching game film.

My favorite? The “one more thing” habit. At the end of your day, ask: what’s one more thing I can do?


3. “I have a mid-tier donor who increased her gift from $500 to $1,000. What’s the #1 strategic question I should ask her?”

Clarkbot suggested:

“What inspired you to increase your giving to $1,000?”

That’s a great opener. It lets the donor talk about her heart, her values, and her vision. And it gives you insights to deepen the relationship.


4. “I met with that donor and invited her to lunch. What’s my next move?”

Clarkbot responded:

“Follow up promptly. Reference the last conversation and frame the next meeting with intentionality. Let her know you’ve been reflecting on your conversation and want to dive deeper.”

Exactly. It’s about forward progress. Momentum. Making space for another meaningful conversation.


Why It Works

You can talk to Clarkbot right now. You can text it. You can speak to it.

You’ll hear my voice. My tone. My phrases.

You can have a full conversation with me—anytime.

Go to https://delphi.ai/majorgifts and try it for free.

If you find it helpful, you can subscribe for $95/month and get:

  • Unlimited Clarkbot conversations
  • One monthly group coaching call
  • A beautifully printed Major Gifts Fundraiser Bundle
  • Curated merch to keep you inspired

What One User Said:

“It’s like having Clark in my pocket.”

We think so, too.

Give it a try. Let me know what you think. You can always email me at clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com.

Thanks for letting me speak into your career.

— Clark