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As I look to the new year, I’m struck with the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. 2016 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet, and I want to share a few things I’m especially excited about: Storytelling for Analytical Leaders – As you might have seen, my friend John Millen and […]
2015 is quickly winding to a close, and 2016, filled with exciting opportunities, is just over the horizon! I hope you’re as excited about next year as I am. Here’s what I’m up to for the next few months. I’m still accepting speaking engagements for next year, but I wanted to give you a look […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 . . […]
This year has been full of activity already and summer is right around the corner. I’ve moved from writing to speaking to welcoming a new grandson – and lots more between. Some days I feel like I barely have time to take a breath! As I look at my calendar, I’m excited about many new […]