The Paradox of Asking

Philanthropy — and the hallmark of successful advancement programs — always exhibits just the right "personal touch," which is enabled by personal relationships. But what happens when relationships appear to close doors instead of opening them?

Here's what I mean. We've heard it from volunteers, and even from other advancement professionals: "I'm too friendly with her to ask her for a contribution." It is well-known that most people feel uncomfortable asking a friend for a gift.