Insights
Top Reads
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How To Strengthen Solicitation Skills
I think of solicitation meetings as a series of questions. First, I ask myself if I am ready for the meeting. Then I ask the person if I can ask them for a gift. Then I ask. Read my 3-part solicitation process below. 1. Do I feel I have a
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How To Strengthen Solicitation Skills
I think of solicitation meetings as a series of questions. First, I ask myself if I am ready for the meeting. Then I ask the person if I can ask them for a gift. Then I ask. Read my 3-part solicitation process below. 1. Do I feel I have a
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Events 101
After the disruptions caused by COVID-19, in-person fundraising events are back and in full swing. When planning events, it’s natural to feel rusty after so much time away. Previously, a
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Summer Activities: Digging Into Donor Data
I’ve written previously about high-impact summer activities. These quiet months are ideal for tackling time-intensive tasks before the pace picks up in the fall. Also, with June 30 marking either
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AI and Advancement
Over the past few months, we’ve been introduced to new artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT. This new technology has dominated the news for its ability to write in different styles
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Preparing for Fiscal Year-End
Many organizations are preparing for the end of the fiscal year on June 30. This year, these preparations occur in an uncertain climate. Economic clouds have been hanging over us
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Deepening Board Member Involvement
Last year, I shared my thoughts on the basics of board engagement. One of my key pillars is to approach fundraising responsibilities holistically beyond required giving and direct involvement in
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Setting Up New Board Members for Success
When building your organization’s board of directors, it often feels daunting to ensure that all of the bases are covered. In addition to selecting the right people with diverse expertise,
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Retention and Turnover Part II: 3-5 Year Plans
Last month, I explored several ways to increase organizational resiliency in the face of high turnover in the fundraising sector. These suggestions help ensure that core day-to-day functions continue when
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Sustaining Momentum Over Time
My recent conversations with several clients have revealed the significant impact that the pandemic has had on their fundraising—and not in the way you think. These organizations were quickly able
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Retention and Turnover Part I: Increasing Organizational Resiliency
Since COVID-19 upended our working lives, there has been much discussion about the Great Resignation and high turnover across industries. Fundraising has been impacted, but it’s not a new problem