There’s this weird misconception about fundraising I see circulating on LinkedIn, and it has to be addressed.
Here’s what certain fundraising “experts” have to say on the topic of solicitation:
“If you do your job right as a fundraiser, you don’t even have to do the ask.”
And, okay, I think I can read between the lines and assume that they aren’t completely ignorant about how their job works. Because on the one hand, you can make the ask SO MUCH EASIER if you do your job well.
But, all of that preliminary relationship building HAS to culminate in a straightforward, honest-to-goodness ask.
But, Rhea, why does it have to be this way? Why can’t we communicate telepathically and make the transfer without any vulnerability or awkwardness from either party?
I hear you. And I get it. It requires thick skin AND a soft touch. And, for most of us it doesn’t come naturally.
Here’s what I’ve learned (and a few things that have changed) about fundraising in 2023…
- Honesty and genuine interest in your donor will never go out of style. Cultivate the relationship and you’ll know when the time is right to make the ask.
- Big asks should be done in person (with few exceptions).
- People would rather you be direct with them than waste their time on another coffee date. In other words, if you wait too long to ask, you might miss the moment.
- Everyone wants to be the hero of their own story. Making the ask is your opportunity to help them discover who they are and what they stand for.
If your goal is to strengthen your fundraising muscle, I have a tasty treat for you down below.
🎤🎤🎤
I recently chatted with my dear friend Laura Fredricks on Nonprofit Lowdown, and I think you’ll want to put your ear to the door on this one.
Laura is a best-selling author and fundraising guru who helps organizations bring in the big bucks. As CEO and founder of The Ask, she’s worked with over 100 nonprofits and raised over $100 million. Her new book Hard Asks Made Easy offers a practical guide to conquering your fear of “the ask.”
In our conversation, Laura breaks down the art and science behind making compelling asks. Her 5P framework – incorporating purpose, pride, persistence, practice and pause – provides the perfect recipe for fundraising success. Laura’s tips on shaping the ask, from identifying potential donors to crafting the pitch, are invaluable for nonprofits seeking to level up their fundraising strategy.
The key is matching the ask to the individual while leading with authenticity. As Laura says, “Make sure it comes from the heart.” Her advice has taken the fear out of fundraising for organizations worldwide. Now it’s your turn – listen up and start asking!
Laura’s books helped me understand my personal asking style and the psychology of making the ask so that I could be confident and fearless in fundraising.
