Three keys to a lasting career in fundraising.
As a nonprofit leader, you have an incredible opportunity to make a lasting difference in the world.
But it’s not always easy.
Do this work long enough, and you WILL come up against resistance.
You WILL feel discouraged, overwhelmed, and even burnt out.
There WILL be days when all you want to do is chuck it all out the window and walk away.
On those days, it’s important to zero in on what really matters.
Here are three quick reminders to help you refocus and keep going when things get tough:
1️⃣ Remember your purpose.
What was the spark that ignited your passion for this work in the first place? What difference are you trying to make? What are you trying to accomplish?
If you find yourself feeling down, think about the lives you’re impacting and the change you’re part of, and remember… the work you do matters.
2️⃣ Focus on the relationships.
It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers, but never forget that fundraising is all about building relationships that stand the test of time.
What small thing can you do today to build stronger relationships with givers? What can you do today to get to know people on a personal level and show them how their support is making a lasting difference?
Can you write a personalized note, make a heartfelt phone call, or send a surprise gesture that shows your appreciation?
Robots make bad fundraisers, so do something with a human touch today. It might lift you out of your funk in the process.
3️⃣ Stick with the story.
What’s one story of change made possible by your work?
Does it clearly and concisely illustrate the problem you’re tackling, the unique solution you offer, and the incredible outcomes that happen as a result?
Remember this story. Memorize it. Reflect on the role your work played in making it happen.
Does it resonate with you? If so, it’ll probably resonate with others too.
Tell it over and over again to anyone who will listen, and invite them to join in making more stories like it happen in the future.
Fundraising is hard, and burnout is real. I get it.
How do you stick with it for the long term?
- Remember your purpose.
- Focus on the relationships.
- Stick with the story.
Do these three things consistently enough over a long enough period of time, and you just might change the world. 💪🌎
And hey… even if you fail, you’ll still be an unstoppable force for good. 💥❤️
Not too shabby if you ask me.
