Why Major Gift Officers Fail

The reasons for major gift officer (MGO) failure, other than the person not having the skills to do the job, are pretty basic:

1. You think it’s just a job.
2. You don't really support the cause.
3. You aren't held accountable.
4. You are lazy.
5. You don’t like people.
6. You fear failure.
7. You are afraid to ask.
8. You aren't following up.

Now, that’s a rather daunting list. And I suppose it could be longer with all kinds of nasty words that could drag you into depression when you read it.

What I find interesting about this list is that MGOs can simply decide to not let any one of these points be a reason for their failures. They can, literally, flick switches in their minds and make the decision to head in another direction if they want.

Think about this. Every morning when you get out of bed, you likely are aware of how you feel and what you are thinking. If not, just stop and let yourself think and feel.

For instance, this morning I woke up angry about my Internet service repair people putting me off for the fifth day in a row while my home sits in online darkness. I sat on the edge of my bed stewing. My head even hurt—that’s how much I had worked myself up.

Then, following the advice I am about to give in this post, I said to myself: “Richard, get ahold of yourself! Are you really gonna start your day this way and be all tight, angry and frustrated? You can’t control the situation, so let it go. And, instead, look at all the wonderful things that are going to happen today!” I flicked the switch.

Now, I am drinking my coffee, talking to you and feeling better.

Take a look at that list for a second. Pick out the two or three things that may apply to you. If there is one missing, add it to your list. Now, go through this exercise. Reframe the attitude you are holding into something positive and constructive. So, taking the list I made earlier, here is how I suggest you handle each of those points:

1. You think it’s just a job. You really don’t have to think about your job this way. Think about it as helping donors find fulfillment for their passions and interests. When you can actually help other people realize their potential, it can bring you joy. When I start going down the mental track of feeling that my work is just a job, I step back and think about what I am really doing. Sure, in some respects, the work you do is about getting a paycheck, but, honestly, that’s just the small part of it. And if you are missing the real part, you need to “flick the switch” and reframe it. You can do it.
2. You don't really support the cause. Hmm, you really don’t? Or have you not thought seriously about it? Stop for a minute and look at what your organization is doing—the end result. Does that end result bring you satisfaction and joy? Or are you focused on the process of doing the work, and is that the part that is messing with your mind? Think carefully about this. It could be true that the cause just isn’t something you support, and that is OK. But then, do something about it. Move on. But if it’s just a thing of your mind and attitude, flick the switch.
3. You aren't held accountable. There is something so freeing about accountability. Run toward it. Be under its power. It will help you focus and become a better and more productive person. Look at why you do not like accountability. It has to do with your free spirit, which is good. But that free spirit, which at times finds it difficult to take counsel and direction, actually is hurting you. Don’t let that happen. Flick the switch.