Listen Carefully
You will hear a gift. You perhaps know the definition of an anagram. It means two words that have different meaning but contain precisely the same letters.
Work Burns Like Fire in Their Bones
There must be a flaming commitment to the mission of the organization. But more than that, it is an absolute love affair for the work itself.
Getting “Yes”
The successful fundraiser has a way of getting “yes” for an answer— at times even before the question is asked. It’s the vision and the passion, that’s what motivates the gift. It’s the spark which ignites into a mighty flame.
Long Tenure in a Position Pays Off
The great fundraisers I interviewed and all those I know who are successful— do not jump from job to job. They stay at their institution.
Luck Favors the Prepared Mind
Jeffrey Blum wrote a fascinating book, “How to Get Lucky.” He points out that luck can be made to happen. As Louis Pasteur said, “Luck favors the prepared mind.”
The 10 Criteria for Success
David Ogilvy is considered the High Priest of advertising. He developed a list of what he considers to be the most important factors in successful people.
Passion Rules the Day
For the successful ones, their work and life excites them. And it shows.
Generalists Rule the World
The successful fundraisers have great regard for specialists in the field. It is understood how important these men and women are to an effective development office.
Successful Fundraisers Are Men and Women of Ideas and Ideals
For the truly successful ones, their beliefs are lofty. Soaring aspirations.
Trust Your Instincts
When is precisely the right time to call on someone? When is it appropriate to talk instead of listen? When do you know whether to launch something new? Try something different? Make a change?
