2023 Recap: My Top 10 Tips for Fundraising Success

As we wrap up 2023, I compiled my top 10 tips of the year as viewed by our thousands of followers. I hope that you will use them as a guide you toward a more impactful 2024. Wishing you a year ahead filled with growth, achievements, and meaningful experiences!

1. Why are so many fundraisers instructed not to talk about themselves when meeting with donors? It’s hard to form a relationship when the other person doesn’t fully participate, no?

2. When a more junior fundraiser scores a big gift (because they built a relationship!), why do we remove that fundraiser from the equation? Add a senior person, maybe, but move the junior person out? No.  

3. Don't assume that a donor wants a big book or expensive gift from you. Ask them how they like to be thanked and honor that. Otherwise, you're wasting precious money that's needed elsewhere.

4. Message to NPOs who spend 95% of their time on major donors--most major donors start giving as smaller donors. Shouldn't we be nurturing that?

5. Promote recurring giving in everything you do. Unlike other donors, monthly donors become more attached to your NPO, and are MORE likely to give, with each passing year. The opposite of most other donor groups.

6. If you're honestly willing to make a change at your organization, then listen to ALL your constituents, including your staff. Especially your fundraisers.

7. If you're having a "quiet period" before a capital campaign and one of your donors (not on that list) hears about it and wants to donate, please take their money.

8. When you pitch a donor, make sure you know if they’re a recurring donor. If they are, thank them for that before you make your new pitch. Otherwise, the donor will think that you’re treating their recurring gift as meaningless.

9. A young fundraiser's age doesn't necessarily translate to "junior" or "unable to work with major donors". The opposite isn't always true, either.

10. If you pitch someone new and they give you connections or feedback instead of money, understand/appreciate that they’re giving you a different sort of gift. Don’t act crestfallen that you didn’t get the immediate gift you wanted.

As we conclude this year of fundraising insights, we're not merely looking back; we're gearing up for a more impactful 2024. Each tip, whether emphasizing the power of personal connection or the potential of recurring giving, serves as a guide. Moving forward, let's keep in mind that change begins with being receptive, adaptable, and fostering relationships.

In the spirit of the season, allow me to extend warm wishes for a joyous holiday season and a Happy New Year!

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Lisa