In a previous post, I mentioned that I had taken part recently in a one-day retreat with 12 MGO’s. Lots of cool stuff came out of that retreat, but this topic was by far the most interesting and I thought most rewarding for you, a fellow major gift colleague.
The question was posed: “In terms of aptitude and attitude, what qualities do you need to see in a major gift officer that would make them promotable or deserving of  a raise?”
So, here they are. This is “the list” that MGO’s themselves said they and their colleagues (that includes YOU) need to exhibit in order to be promoted or earn a raise.  By the way, the order is NOT important. They all carry the same weight.
You ready? A great MGO is someone who…

1. is passionate about the mission and wants to change the world.
2. is willing to be a mentor.
3. takes risks.
4. learns to grow.
5. takes constructive criticism.
6. is a team player.
7. takes on new opportunities.
8. is  proactive in everything vs. reactive.
9. knows that “it’s not about you.”  It’s about the organization and the mission.
10. pursues continuing education and certification.
11. demonstrates proven follow through.
12. shows commitment.
13. is organized.
14. is a thoughtful team member.
15. is looked to by peers for guidance.
16. demonstrates strategic thinking/implementing.
17. has the ability to anticipate donor needs and wants as well as potential obstacles and is able to navigate through adversity.
18. has empathy and is a good listener.
19. is fun, funny, passionate, confident and supportive.
20. has humility.
21. is well-respected.
22. has shown progress.
23. understands the politics and hierarchy of the organization.
24. takes responsibility/is accountable.
25. has the ability to synthesize information into common terms.
26. sets and makes goals.
27. demonstrates that he or she KNOWS the donor.
28. has the ability to collaborate with colleagues.

Wow! What a great list. I just want to make it clear that it was neither Richard nor myself who came up with this list.  This is from your colleagues out in the field. Your peers!
In fact, any good manager would be happy to use this set of qualities when looking  to hire someone.
Yeah, if I were a manager, I’d promote and give this person a nice raise. No doubt. So, do you think there is anything missing or anything you don’t agree with? Let us know.
Jeff