The 4 Stages of PLAN
Put the plan in writing and post a copy where you will see it every day. A plan that never goes beyond your spreadsheet software or your desk drawer (or worse, your brain) isn't going to impact your day-to-day decision-making.
Live it
You've got your plan, so follow it. If it calls for an e-mail to be sent on June 1 and a direct-mail appeal to drop on July 1, figure out what you need to do to make them happen. If you are going to need a human interest story to add "heart," schedule time for an interview. Request the photos, or the endorsement. Be sure your letter signer will be available for copy approval, if required.
Pamela Barden is an independent fundraising consultant focused on direct response. You can read more of her fundraising columns here.
