Fundraising has a reputation problem. For many people, it conjures images of awkward follow-ups, unanswered emails, and the uncomfortable feeling of “bothering” someone for money. But effective fundraising isn’t about pressure—it’s about connection, clarity, and consistency. The best fundraisers aren’t pushy; they’re pleasantly persistent.
So, what does that actually mean?
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For every fundraiser, there comes the time when you just have to write. Whether it’s a grant proposal, an appeal letter, an address for the gala, or a case statement (hopefully a Case for Why!), we have to stop the flurry of daily activity, force ourselves to sit still, and get the words on the page.
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Selecting a campaign consultant is one of the most important decisions your organization will make. The right partner can elevate your fundraising efforts, sharpen your strategy, and ultimately help you achieve results that might otherwise feel out of reach. But not all consultants are created equal. Beyond credentials and polished presentations, there are a few essential qualities that truly set the best apart.
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Fear shows up in fundraising more often than we might want to admit. I’ve been a fundraiser for almost 30 years, and I can still remember being absolutely terrified the first time I met with a donor. A little negative voice was whispering doubts to me: What if I stumble when I ask for a gift? What if the donor says no? What if I get fired if this doesn’t go well? What if the donor just doesn’t like me? What if, what if, what if…?
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As we were discussing hiring their first ever Director of Development, a client asked why it’s considered unethical for a fundraiser not to get a percentage of what they raise. Someone coming from a more corporate background may see it as a no-brainer to compensate a fundraiser for what they raised because in sales that’s the norm. However, fundraisers who belong to AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals) sign a code of ethics, which includes the following statement: Support fair and equitable compensation, which may include bonuses or merit pay in line with organizational practices but may never be based on a percentage of funds raised.
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Fundraising demands both our left-brain and right-brain. If you’re going to move the financial needle for your nonprofit and motivate your donors to practice their philanthropy with confidence, compassion, and courage, we must be adept at both thinking and feeling.
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