Phillips & Associates "Just a Thought..."

The Art of Engagement

Most of our nation's not–for–profit organizations eventually come face–to–face with a fundraising reality: "...in order to secure meaningful gifts we need to engage people in meaningful conversations." Here are four suggested essentials to consider when that fundraising challenge presents itself in your organization.

 

Talk "Loud and Proud"

Every person in a leadership position – volunteer or staff – should be expected to engage people in meaningful conversations about their organization.

How do you regard an organization praised by people most intimately involved in its operations and programs?

 

"Fast Facts"

To most effectively talk loud and proud you should be provided with "fast facts" that can quickly illustrate the essence of your organization's mission, programs, and the value of gift support.

How do you respond to the question: "why should anyone give anything, at anytime, to your organization?"

 

Engagement Objectives

Set specific objectives for each personal engagement; objectives to be considered before you or someone else attempt to solicit a meaningful gift commitment:
  • identifying specific areas of a person's interests related to your organization's programs
  • evaluating his/her interest and capacity to make a meaningful gift
  • suggesting next steps to cultivate his/her personal interests and involvement
  • determining the best person(s) to encourage a meaningful gift when the time comes
  • recommending the best time and approach to solicit a gift
  • identifying possible terms and conditions of the gift
  • suggesting appropriate donor recognition for the gift
What are three objectives for your next personal engagement?

 

Defining Your Role In A Gift Solicitation

You may or may not be the best person, or even the most willing, to personally solicit a meaningful gift from someone you have engaged in conversations. But if you have applied the Art Of Engagement and communicated your results to others in your organization, it is most likely your good efforts will lead to meaningful gifts.

Are you engaging?

 

Our fundraising management consulting firm, founded in 1971, is dedicated to the development of leadership and financial resources for our clients in the not-for-profit sector.
Phone: (310) 247–0963 Fax: (310) 247–0966 Web: www.PhillipsOnTheWeb.com
If you have any questions or comments you can email us at: contact@PhillipsOnTheWeb.com
Post Office Box 241040
Los Angeles, CA 90024

This article has been authored by Gary W. Phillips and must not be reproduced, in whole or in part or otherwise distributed without prior written approval to do so. 03/06