Post It that says "Keep it simple".Why is it we look for the shiny object, the new, the magical, the innovative, the never-before-tried – why do we look for solutions in these places when the solution is right in front of us?
This has always been amazing to me and Jeff. And we often talk about it.
In fact, any time I’m embroiled in a conversation of great complexity, I’ve trained myself to look for the simple point within it. It can be found if you can get past all the words, theories, preferences and biases.
It seems that if an approach or solution is too simple, it just can’t be right.
Like managing a caseload.
It’s pretty basic. Talk to the right donors, match activity to their passions and interests, personalize plans, etc. etc. – all the stuff we’ve been writing about for years. You know what it is.
Basic. Simple.
Not simplistic. Not ineffective.
Simple. And to the point. Quantifiably effective.
And it works.
But over and over again, we hear some very intelligent and sophisticated managers and leaders (who have a lot of experience) say something to this effect: “That can’t possibly work. It’s too simple.”
Just last week I was on a call with a very experienced leader who, after I explained the key elements of the major gift caseload management process, said to me: “That’s pretty basic, Richard.” I replied: “Yes, it is. And you likely won’t do it.”
He was a bit taken back by my forthrightness and candor but, gaining composure, asked: “Why do you say that?”
And I told him that in all the experience Jeff and I and the rest of our team have had with hundreds of non-profit leaders and managers, many of them say the same thing. And we’ve seen the pattern over and over again. They are all out looking for the shiny new object, the magical solution, the innovative approach.
I wasn’t sure he was convinced by my response, so I said, “NAME, I tell you what. Why don’t you do what you think is right – something that you think will work for you. But let’s measure your MGOs’ annual caseload values now and then see where they are in a year or two. I think you’ll come to see my point.”
And that’s where we left it.
The other common response we get is “Oh, that’s simple. We can do it ourselves.” And I say the same thing: “OK, let’s take the measurement and then I’ll check back with you in two years to see where things are.”
People who know me would say I’m a kind, thoughtful and generous person. But when I hear the “it is so simple it can’t be right” thing, I have to fight not to change into a monster, because it gets me so wound up. The very solution the person needs is rejected because it’s too simple.
Why am I going on about this? Because you, as a MGO, need to keep things simple, basic and straightforward. Do NOT be chasing shiny new things. They will kill you and your program. You know what works – stay with it. And all will be well. (Tweet it!)
Richard

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