3 min read
The other day I was talking to an executive director of a regional, well-established non-profit. She was lamenting that her organization was steeped in very strict silos, and the situation made it difficult for development to be effective. I was confused by this because here I was, talking to the...
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2 min read
Back in November I wrote about what you should be doing in December to finish strong. I really hope it’s going well. Today, I want to suggest what you can do in January that will set the stage for an...
2 min read
Building trust in any relationship is essential if that relationship is going to be real and authentic. As a major gift fundraiser, creating mutual trust with your major donors is really your...
2 min read
A question that Richard and I often get from development directors and MGOs is whether or not caseload donors should get regular direct-response appeals (mail and email) just like the rest of the...
2 min read
Being “donor-centered” or “donor-focused” had a good run. But Richard and I believe it’s dead. It’s dead because it’s not working. That is, not working well enough. What was great about...
2 min read
“So, tell me what you did with my money,” the donor said. And the silence and lack of response drove her away. Jeff and I hear stories like this every week. Every week! Sadly, this is one of the...
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3 min read
The word transformation is an interesting and inspiring word. It means “a thorough or dramatic change.” It is positive and aspirational, and it carries a lot of meaning when it comes to giving. There...
2 min read
You’ve heard of the term “Solo Player.” In a sales environment, it refers to someone that does everything on his own and won’t include others in his work. Over the years, Richard and I have run into...
2 min read
Sixth in the series: Six Traits of Healthy Donor Relationships You probably would never think of saying “no” to a donor. But in a healthy relationship, sometimes you have to. It feels...
3 min read
Part three of the series: Six Traits of Healthy Donor Relationships “Yes, you are right. Our overhead is 26%!” “I’m calling to let you know that the project you funded is being shut down. We thought...
