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Do donors make big gift decisions alone? Sometimes yes. Sometimes no. Often a spouse, family member, business partner, trusted adviser, or others need to be consulted first. As a fundraiser, how would you know? I’m sure it comes as no surprise for me to suggest that you . . . ask. Step 9 is Asking […]
You’ve got to get this book! My good friend, Bob Tiede, just released his new book, “Great Leaders ASK Questions” and – as you would expect – it’s outstanding! Bob connects beautifully with both seasoned and emerging leaders beginning on the very first page where he asks,“Would you like to increase your leadership effectiveness X […]
Yes, timing is everything! And your patience will be rewarded when you adapt to your donor’s sense of timing. The donor’s timing is what matters, as we see in today’s video, Asking About Timing. Asking donors about the timing of their gift decisions leads to some enlightening conversations. And, like all the steps on the 10 […]
That’s the $64,000 question — right? But, is $64,000 the right amount? Game shows aside, how do we “know” what is the right size gift for a specific donor? To find out the answer, join me on Step 6: Asking About Amount, as we continue climbing the 10 Step Staircase. (We skipped Step 5, Asking […]
Over the past few weeks we’ve climbed the first three steps of the 10 Step Staircase. As you incorporate Conversational Fundraising into your work, I hope your visits with donors are rich and rewarding. You’ll build better relationships and learn more about those who give to your organization. I’ve heard some of your success stories […]
Last week, I introduced Steps 1 and 2 of the 10 Step Staircase, getting acquainted and introducing the project. I shared some questions that I think you’ll find helpful in the early stages of asking about asking. Today, we’re focused on Step 3: asking about giving. This step is one of my favorites, as you […]
I hope you enjoyed last week’s video describing our Definition of Success in Fundraising. Today we continue the 10 Step Staircase series by taking the first steps! During our climb, I’ll share with you some insightful questions to ask when meeting with donors. In the video below, we visit Steps 1 and 2, getting acquainted […]
Today we begin a weekly video series where I share with you some tools you can put into practice IMMEDIATELY to engage donors and get larger gifts for your organization. If you’re not directly involved in fundraising, you’ll still want to tune in. These concepts can be applied in many areas of life where you […]
You’ve heard of it. The dreaded IRS Form 990, the information return charitable organizations submit anually in order to retain their tax-exempt status. It’s tedious, right? Only if you let it be. Did you know the From 990 is the primary information source for many funders? By definition, these are more sophisticated givers . . […]
“He takes out his cell phone during every meal together.” “She never looks me in the eye.” “Did they say 2:00 or 3:00? I wasn’t listening…” Do any of these situations sound familiar…either you’ve experienced them or are guilty of them? (Be honest, now!) For many years I was a member of Toastmasters, an organization […]