It’s Worth It. Really.

Speakers offered tons of tips on how to build better donor relationships. But underlying them all was the notion that relationships with donors are very much like those with friends, family members and spouses, etc. Neglect, arrogance, abuse and other negatives are just as damaging; respect, nurturing and communication are just as beneficial. As in the best interpersonal relationships, it pays to be honest, to be genuine, to be vulnerable, to be the best "you" you can possibly be and go from there.

And as with all relationships, it's not always easy. It takes time, it's a little scary — and it's inarguably worth it. But hey, if you aren't willing to go that route and prefer instead to busy yourself with raking in one-off gifts from folks who might or might not give again and who don't feel intimately connected to your organization and your cause (you know, the one-night stands of fundraising), don't sweat it. Really. There's another organization out there with a similar mission whose fundraising staff has a deeper dedication to engagement. They'll be more than happy to give your donors what they need and deserve. And won't that be special?