Are you afraid of asking for money? If so, this video is for you!
This is a “from memory” summary of what’s in today’s video, not a complete transcription. So skim the text and watch the 8-minute video above for every tip and tidbit of information on the topic.
The Fear of Asking for Money is Common
Before I speak at a conference, training seminar, or facilitate a board retreat, I often send a survey to participants to get their feedback in advance of the session.
One of the questions I ask is: What do you wish you knew about raising major gifts, but are too embarrassed to ask?
As I gear up for nonprofit conference season, I’ve been receiving a lot of these survey responses back. One of the responses I get over and over is…
How can I Overcome my Fear of Asking?
Here’s my three-step approach:
1. Admit you are afraid.
Once you admit you are afraid — and this is probably what’s holding you back from raising major gifts — you can find a mentor, hire a coach, receive formal training, etc. Knowledge is power … the more you know, the less afraid you’ll be. It’s as simple as that.
2. Practice, practice, practice.
When asking a donor for a major gift, it’s one of the most important business meetings you’ll have. There’s no sense in “winging it.” Therefore, you need to practice and prepare. Practice exactly what you want to cover, and how you will ask for a gift. Don’t be a robot and memorize a script, but be sure to know what key points you want to cover, what questions you will ask the donor, and how you will ask for the gift.
3. Ask anyway!
Even if you’re afraid, you need to ask. After all, it’s your job to ask. Take comfort in the fact that you’re not asking for yourself, you’re asking for others. If they say no, don’t take it personally. Keep asking until you get a Yes!
Watch the entire video to learn more about how and when to admit you’re afraid, how and when to practice, practice, practice, and of course … to ask anyway!
A More Informal Video — Like it?
As you can see, I’ve tried a new video format today — it’s more informal and less rehearsed. Let me know if you love it, hate it or are indifferent.
Also, please do comment below:
- What do you do to conquer your fear of asking?
- What do you wish you knew about fundraising, but are embarrassed to ask?
Thanks for watching!
Great stuff Amy – and I love the informal video. I imagine you could get a lot more out that way – and it works because you are a natural!
(Plus awesome content).
Sean
Thanks, Sean! Appreciate the feedback from a colleague!
Amy,
You asked for feedback about your new, less formal video format. Here is mine. The more informal format
works very well. It delivers your message in a way that is direct, concise, personal and effective.
You need not be apprehensive using this format – especially if it makes production easier.
DCH
Thanks, David. I appreciate it.
Loved the new format! Succinct and to the point–I think the change is great. And I will be seeing you soon, at your appearance in Princeton, New Jersey. Travel safely!
Glad you like it. Appreciate the feedback! See you next week in Princeton!
Believe, believe, believe in your cause. You are not asking for money you are allowing someone to participate in your ministry. We say you can go, send or be disobedient. You are allowing others to participate in the “send” part of the equation. Make them a part of your ministry, share the results, successes and failures.
Hi Amy,
Thanks for sharing this! Very helpful!
I’m not sure whether I would admit outright to my donor that I’m not comfortable asking her/him for money. However, I have developed a short speach where I tell my donor that the mission (in my case cancer-stricken children and their family) that we support is too important to hold me back and that I have to meet, ask, etc. her/him to let them know how they can support.
Keep up the great work!
GR
I wish I knew the best way to keep prospecting, cultivating, soliciting and stewardship (moves management) organized when the organization has a less-than-stellar database. Is an Excel sheet the next best thing?Thanks!
I think so, Ann. Have you looked into Bloomerang? Cost effective and excellent!
When conquering fear, I remember these words of wisdom from a mentor: “Feel those butterflies in your stomach? That is wonderful! They are excited because they know you know what you are doing and know you will do great!”
That’s great. Thanks, Laura!
Enjoyed the new more informal presentation; and the advice was excellent! Thanks, Amy.
Hi Amy!
I love the new, informal blog format. Feels much more personal – like you are my mentor and speaking directly to me. As a visual and audio learner, I will remember your post because I saw and heard the information. Thanks so mixing it up!
Looks like we all like it so far!
I enjoyed the polish and high production values of your previous posts, but this format is much more efficient and the content is really what’s important, not the bells and whistles. I say keep it!
I really liked the format. I have only seen a few of your videos and posts, but I liked the visual format plus the written. They appeal to various types of learning styles.
The question I have is how do I build relationships with donors and costiuens that have yet to give.?
I prefer the informal format, the video makes it more personal and seems more interactive. Well done!
To overcome my fear or discomfort I try to be prepared with a few facts and some personal stories to highlight my facts.
I’m fairly new to the field, so I feel I have some work to do to understand the formal process behind development.
Thanks Amy
I’ve enjoyed meeting you today Amy…
Overcoming fear? Practice, practice, and practice. When I have ‘it right’, I will know it! And, then, I am prepared to go to the meeting and share with another individual, or a group.
What do you wish you knew, but are embarrassed to ask?
Re: Arts & Entertainment 4 DFW Youths; the organization (founded 2010) needs an Executive Director. I am a good facilitator, but have no ability to lead the Organization in that capacity. How do I get a talented and experienced person to help, when we only have $205.48 in the Kid’s checking account?
I am just getting into fundraising.
In 2018, the organization must take A Gigantic Step for Kid-Kind!
James Rosenberg, Founder & CEO
http://www.AandE4DFWyouths.org
I created a concept entitled “Leading from the Heart” which celebrates leaders who change the world by following their heart. Volunteer and fundraising leadership offers a training ground for new and existing leaders to learn and fail. My passion to help those most in need created an energy and enthusiasm inside of me that I did not know existed. This process gave me the opportunity to realize my potential as a leader in a way that I never expected. I have since used those skills to change the lives of countless people and organizations.