Do you get anxious before asking donors for a gift? You’re not alone! One of the most common questions we hear from non-profit leaders and fundraising professionals is: how can I get over the fear of asking for money? 

Here’s the thing: asking for gifts is actually an important part of your role to serve your donors and partner with them in their giving journey. If you’re not asking your donors to give (with personalized proposals that align with their interests, of course!), then you’re not serving their desire to make a difference for your mission. 

So how do you conquer your fear of asking? In this Question of the Month video, Jeff shares one fundraiser’s story about moving past this fear and how you can do this too. And if you could use some more support and practice in this area, check out our online training, “Making Effective Donor Asks.” 

Watch the Question of the Month here:

Read the transcript below:

Jeff Schreifels   

Hey there, folks. Jeff Schreifels here from Veritus Group. You might be surprised to hear this, but a lot of fundraisers struggle with fear or anxiety around asking donors for a gift. They find themselves looking for reasons why now’s not the right time, or this donor just doesn’t have capacity. When in reality, they’re avoiding the conversation because they’re afraid of rejection or afraid of offending the donor. So how can you overcome the fear of asking so that you can honor your donor’s genuine desire to make a bigger difference in the world?  

 Here’s the thing, the only way to get over that fear is to face it head on. I know what you might be thinking. “Just start asking? It can’t be that simple, Jeff.” And you’re right. There’s more to it than just asking. But it all starts with that decision to push past the fear and take the first step.  

 Let me tell you a story. I once worked with a CEO who avoided asking for gifts for over two decades. Can you imagine that? But when we finally sat down and addressed her fears, something incredible happened. After weeks of preparation and practice, she made her first ask for $500,000. And you know what? The donor’s response floored her. He said, “I’ve been waiting, waiting for a long time for you to ask me that.” And from that moment on, she was unstoppable. She realized that donors want to be asked as partners in your mission.

So take a moment now and think about what’s holding you back. Is it fear? Doubt? Whatever it is, remember, it’s all about your mindset. But you have the power to overcome it. Make that decision. Take that step to bring a new opportunity to a loyal donor, and watch as donors start opening up. Thanks for tuning in, folks. Until next time, keep asking and allow yourself to dream big with your donors about what’s possible. 

—