Improving your ask

Here are a number of things that you can do to improve your ability to ask for donations, including:

• Let any donor know why you are coming and what your intentions are.
• Be clear about your ask. What are you asking for? A one-time donation? A monthly pledge? A legacy gift?
• Be specific about how the donation will be used. What will the donation help you to accomplish?
• Be passionate about your cause. Your passion will be contagious and will encourage others to give.
• Be prepared to answer questions. Donors may have questions about your organisation, its mission, or its impact. Be prepared to answer these questions in a clear and concise way.
• Be grateful for every donation. Thank donors for their gifts, no matter how large or small.