Soul on Fire
For your donors, it’s far more than just giving money. It is the soul on fire. It has to do with values. Giving is all about the human spirit and letting it soar.
Asking the Right Questions
Successful soliciting is not as much about knowing the right answers as it is about knowing the right questions to ask. You don’t have to have all the answers. But what you must have are all the right questions.
Asking Donors for Their Heart
Don’t ask men and women for their money. Ask for their heart and spirit. For a donor, it’s not about money. It’s about dreams and high aspirations. It’s about what magic their gift can perform.
Nine Mandates That Lead to Success
1. Listen because it shows how much you value the other person.2. Return all phone calls immediately.3. Send thank you notes.4. Show sincere appreciation.5. Become a valued resource to the donor.6. Create a relationship— not a sale.7. Do what you say you will do— do not over-promis
What’s in a Name?
Okay. Okay! I get it. In a recent e-mail, I suggested a title to consider to take the place of one that is in common use. I received several hundred responses saying— what the heck is the matter with the old, Director of Planned Giving or Gift Planning.
Building a Championship Team
The other day, I was with the fundraising staff of Western Michigan University. In recent years, their philanthropic revenue has quadrupled.
Beauty of Philanthropy
“I’m really upset.” “What’s the problem, Jeff,” I ask. I’m talking with a substantial donor to his university.
Tin Man Society
You may recall. Several times in the past, I’ve suggested you think of a name other than “Legacy Society” or “Heritage Society” for the men and women who indicate they have left your organization in their estate plans or made a planned gift.
Retention Fundraising Tips
Roger Craver has written an immensely important book. It’s called Retention Fundraising.
