Showing Results Without Killing Fundraising

Unfortunately, another e-mail I received did quite the opposite. It provided a link to the organization's annual report but didn't make me feel like I was part of the success (until the last line). Phrases like "I am proud," "tells our story" and "we're achieving our mission" kept the focus on the organization instead of on what the organization accomplished with my help.

Take it from this old dog: Sharing success is important, but make sure it is a shared success because of you and the donor. Otherwise you may only be talking to yourself as your donors move on to where they feel part of the solution.