I speak with a whole lot of nonprofit leaders who get actually, actually nervous in regards to the wording of their fundraising ask. Whereas I really like the intentionality they present in wanting the appropriate phrases, their fretting jogs my memory of energy ties within the 80’s.
Do you bear in mind these?
Within the 1980’s there have been all kinds of books about gown. And for many people, we have been informed what sort of “energy tie” we have been imagined to put on. It’s as if when you wore the mistaken tie your complete enterprise assembly would fail.
Fundraising isn’t like that.
You’re not going to “mess up” an ask when you stumble over your phrases. Or when you say the month-to-month quantity as an alternative of the annual quantity (or vice versa).
As a result of fundraising is a dialog with donors and folks you hope will take into account being donors.
At this time’s “ask” is simply part of an extended, ongoing dialog with the opposite particular person. Their response to at this time’s ask – or their lack of response – permits you to curiously observe up with them within the coming weeks. I discover with donors and with a lot of working with folks, when you don’t know what somebody is pondering it’s good to ask. You possibly can ask them in the event that they obtained your e mail. Or in the event that they have been delay by the ask. Or you may thank them for his or her present.
The ask is essential. However bear in mind the ask is a part of an extended dialog.
So get on the market and ask for items. Even when you stumble over your phrases a bit of. It’ll make you extra human.
Bear in mind, your nonprofit’s fundraising is stronger than a 1980’s energy tie.