Don't Read This
Stop. Right now. Don't go any further.
I had a sinking feeling yesterday. There was a prospective donor that I had been meaning to call. Each day. For several days.
It turns out, if I had it would have been a positive experience for all. Really positive. By not connecting during those "I need to" days, the timing of a real opportunity was delayed.
Don't you have a few calls that you need to make? That maybe slip in the business of back-to-back meetings and, yes, time on social media?
Return to Bedrocks & Beacons next Wednesday — please!
Right now, take 30 minutes. Block another few hours off your calendar for this week and next. Make a list of the 10 people you most need really to just reach out to. Nothing formal — connecting, checking in, thanking.
Pick up the phone, or if possible, get in the car or walk down the hall or the street. Connect with someone — some people — who are really going to make a difference in the course of your day. And people who in connecting with you are going to make a real difference in their lives … and in their thinking about philanthropy and your organization.
Do it! See you next week.
- Categories:
- Face-to-face Fundraising
Looking for Jeff? You'll find him either on the lake, laughing with good friends, or helping nonprofits develop to their full potential.
Jeff believes that successful fundraising is built on a bedrock of relevant, consistent messaging; sound practices; the nurturing of relationships; and impeccable stewardship. And that organizations that adhere to those standards serve as beacons to others that aspire to them. The Bedrocks & Beacons blog will provide strategic information to help nonprofits be both.
Jeff has more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience and is a member of the NonProfit PRO Editorial Advisory Board.
