“Failing to plan is planning to fail.” That adage, with some variations, is attributed to both Winston Churchill and Benjamin Franklin. General Eisenhower added: “Plans are nothing, planning is everything.” We agree that planning really is more about the process than the output. Read More
I have a few of those! As I was wincingly recalling them, I realized what they had in common – jerks. Most of the people I have encountered were quite wonderful, but running into a jerk or two is inevitable. What to do? Read More
During the Harvard Business School capital campaign, Howard earned – and wore proudly – the nickname “Professor Road Warrior,” logging approximately 1,000 one-on-one meetings, and speaking to more than 5,000 people in group settings on behalf of the effort. He is quick to point out, however, that he had lots of help, from a talented and tireless Development team as well as alumni, faculty, and HBS leadership. Read More
I’ve been fortunate to have many great fundraising experiences over the years, working with inspired and inspiring donors, development professionals, and volunteer fundraisers. You may be disappointed by my favorite story, though. It’s not about a billion dollar gift, and I’m not even in it. I share it, though, because I found it so moving, and learned a powerful lesson from it. Read More
At the risk of sounding contrarian – yes, once again – my first reaction is: “Don’t do it.” That said, I understand where the question is coming from. Nonprofits are facing extraordinary financial pressures, and are grasping for solutions. Read More
As with many things, the short answer is “it depends.” Your fundraising strategy, organizational complexity, and donor base all have implications for the personal characteristics, skill sets and experience that you’re looking for in your chief fundraiser. Read More
We are happy to give credit to Grant Brownrigg (www.grantland.net). Here is a reprise of a few of our favorite G2G book cartoons. Read More
The good news, from the 2013 Giving USA report, is that volunteerism is on the rise. That has sparked some very good ideas about to harness that energy. I will take the opportunity to get on my bandwagon about the importance of fundraising partnerships – including volunteers – and dispel a common myth. Read More
This one is a bit trickier because, as a volunteer fundraiser, you’re sandwiched between the donors you’re soliciting and the organization that you’re representing. Also, I’m not sure I really have the right to be critical of donors, since I am asking them to help me and my cause. But, since you asked… Read More
Do you have any tips for world-class donor communications?
Happy to answer that one, because communications are so important and a lot of what I see – as a board member and a donor myself – is downright awful. Here’s a top ten list for effective donor messaging. First and foremost: Know your audience! Read More
