Margaret Macleod ~ Independent Fundraising Consultant ~ June 2018

Pick Up the Phone!

…and call “Jane.” You know, she’s one of the major stakeholders in your cause. She’s easy to talk to, loves your mission, and loves how you’re delivering it.

Share One Thing Share with her one “win” or accomplishment that your organization has had in recent weeks or months, and explain that it couldn’t have happened if not for her dedicated support. Thank her profusely for this. Thank her for making your job easier.

Ask One Question Ask Jane what interests her most about your organization for this year. You may have already asked, but you never know when her answer may change, progress, or shift. Listen carefully to her answer and make notes in her database entry so you’ll remember the next time you talk to her. Jane’s perspective is incredibly valuable, listen and learn. Thank her again and let her know you look forward to keeping her informed of the difference she is making.

Strategy For Voicemail Nine times out of ten, you will get voice mail, but call anyway. In your message, mention that you have good news about your organization, and that you’re eager to share it with her. Suggest a few times you’re available to receive a call back from her, but strategically let her know you’ll try her again if you haven’t connected. When I do this, I mark my calendar to call back in a week or two so I don’t forget this important follow-up with my donor.  Sometimes staff and volunteers are concerned about bothering donors or prospects by calling too many times. My rule of thumb is, if after two calls you don’t connect and time has gone by, drop a note in snail mail with your specific news and your gratitude. But don’t forget to plant that seed -- you hope to see or talk to the prospect in person soon.

The Nugget There’s no substitute for in-person communication, that’s when the deepest, most lasting relationship development occurs.

Powerful Strategies to Advance Your Cause Build an actionable development plan Design & strategize campaigns Write a winning grant proposal Plan or manage your event Rally your board & staff Coach your committee And more

Good job, You! You advanced your cause today.

Margaret Macleod | Independent Fundraising Consultant | 207.632.8472 | mlmacleod16@gmail.com