Have You Considered Simply Asking Them?
Do you ever feel like you’re playing an endless guessing game with donors?
You’re not alone.
In nonprofit conference rooms around the world, people like you are trying to crack the code:
- How often do they want to hear from us?
- What do they really want from us?
- What projects are they most passionate about?
- Are they interested in volunteering opportunities?
- Do you think they’d respond well to this email?
- Should we change our approach?
- Should we ask them to give to this or to that?
- I wonder if they’d ever be open to _______?
How many times have you gotten stuck on questions like these?
How many endless discussions and strategy sessions have you been part of trying to come up with answers to these questions and countless others like them?
It’s a never-ending guessing game. And if we’re not careful, we can become practiced at the art of speculation.
We speculate about what they’re thinking. We make guesses about what they want. And we wonder how they might respond to all kinds of things.
Sometimes we create entire strategies based on speculation alone.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make in your fundraising is the questions you DON’T ASK.
🤯🤯
Here’s a wild idea.
It may be ahead of its time though, so brace yourself.
What if … instead of making so many assumptions … we just asked?
Instead of assuming or wondering, what if you simply asked the donor directly?
Sounds easy, right? But then why don’t we do it?
Why do you hesitate to approach donors with questions?
Maybe you’re worried about appearing unprofessional, bothering them, or potentially jeopardizing the relationship?
Are those fears real or are they rooted in a place of insecurity?
The truth is, most people appreciate being asked their opinion.
It shows that you value their input and see them as more than just a source of funding.
In fact, direct communication like this will not only give you valuable insight. It can also strengthen your relationships with people.
Here’s what you get when you get these questions out of your head and out of your conference room and into a conversation with a donor:
- Accuracy: Assumptions are usually wrong. By asking, you get accurate information straight from the source.
- Personalization: Understanding individual preferences allows you to personalize your approach.
- Engagement: When you ask for input, you show that you want the person you’re asking to be more involved and invested in your organization.
- Efficiency: Instead of wasting time and resources on guesswork, you can focus on what truly matters to donors.
- Transparency: Open communication fosters trust and demonstrates your commitment to donor satisfaction.
Even if it feels awkward or uncomfortable at first, remember, donors are people too.
They understand that you’re striving to improve, and most will appreciate your effort to serve them and your cause better.
The next time you find yourself wondering about a donor’s preferences or opinions, take a deep breath and ask yourself:
“Is this something I could ask them directly?”
If the answer’s yes (and it probably will be) send them an email, shoot a text, pick up the phone, or schedule a meeting.
Be honest about what you’re trying to achieve and why their input matters.
You might be surprised by the positive responses you receive. Not only will you gain valuable insights, but you’ll also build stronger, more authentic relationships.
Remember, effective fundraising isn’t about being a mind-reader or making perfect guesses.
Effective fundraising is about open, honest communication and a genuine desire to understand and serve people better.
So go ahead … ask that question you’ve been wondering about.
Your donors – and your organization – will thank you for it.
