Break the Rules v4

Published on Nov 18, 2015

There are many “givens” in fundraising that are based on “best practice.” Best practices are called that for a reason, right? In your day-to-day life, however, it often depends. Why do we do what we do? By examining the fundamental goals of what have been best practice, you can choose what to do, what not to do, and what to make better for your specific fundraising goals.

PRESENTATION OUTLINE

Break the Rules

When Best Practices Aren't and What to Do Instead

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That'll Never Work Here

...is sometimes true

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From Business Dictionary:

A method or technique that has consistently shown results superior to those achieved with other means, and that is used as a benchmark.

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"Stuff that works at bigger organizations"

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A few examples

"Your board must be involved in asking for money"

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They delay.
They ask for too little.
They don't ask.
When they ask, they're not good.

Example: Hal
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Unlock the door

Connect--open doors
Provide testimony
Do ONE thing

"People first support with small gifts and move up"

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Traditional North American, western philanthropy focused model

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Traditional North American, western philanthropy focused model

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"There is a correct way to ask for a big gift."

Peer to peer, not staff
In person
Moves management

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That's not the way I roll

Example: Tim
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Customize

Communicate through your donor's preferred channel and connect with the most appropriate person

"You have to ask"

You have to ask and ask for money

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Sometimes you don't--wrong donor, wrong ask, culturally wrong
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A Hopi….is one who fulfills the meaning of Sumi’nangwa and will come together to do activities for the benefit of all, out of a compelling desire and commitment to contribute or return something of value or benefit to the society;

A Hopi….is one who fulfills the meaning of Nami’nangwa by helping one another or give aid in times of need, without having to be asked to do so and without expecting compensation for the deed;

A Hopi….is one who fulfills the meaning of Hita’nangwa by having the initiative to take care of something without having to be instructed, asked or reminded regardless if anyone will notice your effort but that it will make a difference;
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Evolution

and revolution?

Factors affecting "best practice"

  • Donor sophistication
  • Expectation of customized experience
  • Higher engagement
  • No boundaries
  • Changing nature of relationships

What won't change

  • It's about the relationships
  • Importance of human interaction, platform agnostic

Magic Formula

There's no one size fit all

Challenging Practices

  • What's the ultimate goal?
  • Can I make this work, or should I let it go?

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Alice Ferris, CFRE, ACFRE
Jim Anderson, CFRE
@goalbusters @aliceferris @goalbustersjim