How to rekindle the flame when donors lose interest.

By Katya Andresen

And I’m going to prove it — right in this column.

Dear Marketing Maven:
My e-mail list isn’t what it used to be. People aren’t listening to me anymore, and each time I ask for their help, they’re less responsive. Why doesn’t my list love me anymore?
— Despairing in Development

Dear Despairing:
I suspect you’re getting the silent treatment for three reasons. First, you could be a stalker. Do you have permission to e-mail your list? Are these people who’ve said they want to hear from you? If not, don’t expect them to greet your spammy self with open arms.