Fundraising Results: It’s Not the Economy, It’s You

Do you think your fundraising results are terrible because of a poor economy? If so, think again. Many organizations are raising more money than ever before.

The Winners and Losers

Those organizations that are investing in development efforts are seeing a significant return on their investments. They’re the winners. It should come as no surprise then, that those that are cutting development budgets (and staff members) are the ones who are seeing declining results — the losers.

Is your organization a winner or a loser?

How to Become a Winner

Here are some ways to increase your fundraising results, no matter what the economy is doing.

Ask Your Donors for Gifts

Are you sitting at your desk waiting for the phone to ring with a donor on the other end? This strategy may have worked five years ago, but now it’s the people who are out meeting with donors and asking for gifts that are reaping the rewards. How many people did you ask for a gift this month?

Be Grateful and Responsive

Are you properly thanking your donors? Do you have a formal stewardship program in place? Are you sending thank you letters (not just receipts), making thank you calls, thanking people in person? And, letting them know how their donation was used and the impact it made? This is so important in terms of receiving future gifts and increased future gifts.

Build Lasting Relationships

How many friends have you raised for your organization this year? Are you introducing new people to your organization? What are you doing to foster and build relationships with your donors? How many times this month have you met with donors or prospective donors? How many people have you taken on a tour of your organization?

When you build lasting relationships with your donors, you create a social framework for years of future giving.

Invest in your Development Programs

Have you increased or decreased your fundraising budget this year? Are you sending your staff to training? Have you held a board retreat with development on the agenda?

It’s crucial to invest in yourself and your staff. You can receive personal coaching and support from me directly upon request.

Related Links

• Fundraisers Told They Should Refine, Refocus Their Approach
• Foundation Giving Expected to Rise in 2011, Study Finds

So how have you been handling a poor economy to keep your fundraising strong? Share your experience in the comments.