Scott on Strategic Mindset for Fundraisers
Key Questions:
- How do fundraisers find people to approach?
- How can they prepare for the ask?
1. Learning the Skill of Asking
- Asking feels like an imposition → reframe as an invitation.
- Core skill for nonprofit leaders.
- Practice: “Would you give to our organisation? We need champions like you.”
- Goal: be comfortable and confident.
2. Finding Donors & Crafting Asks
- No single recipe → creativity + strategy.
- Example: Goal $100K; donor gave $20K → ask for matching gift.
- Corporations: seek credibility.
- Monthly donors: value consistent updates.
3. Tailoring Communication & Motivation
- Understand motivations; match communication style.
- Asking applies to money, volunteering, and prayer support.
4. Using Social Proof
- Show others already given or served.
- Matching donors or volunteer stories builds confidence.
5. Organisation & Timing
- Be strategic and planned.
- Use a calendar: who, what, when.
- Timing often matters more than wording.
6. Core Principle
- Don’t be embarrassed or shy.
- Ask consistently and clearly—for money, time, or support.
- Fundraising = skill + strategy + creativity. Ask confidently, tailor to motivations, leverage social proof, and stay organised.