The Why and How of Listening to Your Donors
To be a good listener, you need to be good at asking questions to prompt conversation. Ask them open-ended, probing questions such as:
- What are their values?
- What made them successful?
- Why did they first support and continue to support your organization?
- What programs most resonate and why?
- How can you and your organization improve?
And, when appropriate, ask donors who they know who might share their passion for your mission — and, by all means, ask them for a gift!
Looking for Jeff? You'll find him either on the lake, laughing with good friends, or helping nonprofits develop to their full potential.
Jeff believes that successful fundraising is built on a bedrock of relevant, consistent messaging; sound practices; the nurturing of relationships; and impeccable stewardship. And that organizations that adhere to those standards serve as beacons to others that aspire to them. The Bedrocks & Beacons blog will provide strategic information to help nonprofits be both.
Jeff has more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience and is a member of the NonProfit PRO Editorial Advisory Board.
