One of the biggest rules in fundraising is don’t say someone’s “no” for them. It’s also said that 100 percent of the asks you don’t make are a no.
I love fundraising! Fundraising is my favorite… said almost no one ever.
Let’s just get right to the elephant in the room: Asking someone for money can be uncomfortable, even for people who do it as their profession.
But I want you to take a minute to get on the other side of the ask. Do you remember the feeling you had when you gave to a great cause or helped someone in need? Science shows the benefits of generosity, the biggest being the release of brain chemicals that gives one a sense joy and peace.
Knowing that, wouldn’t you want to give your friends and family the chance to experience that? Don’t steal that opportunity from them.
One of the biggest rules in fundraising is don’t say someone’s “no” for them. It’s also said that 100 percent of the asks you don’t make are a no.
It’s a numbers game. You have to get through some no’s to get to a yes. Even the best fundraisers, like the best hitters in baseball, generally succeed in only about one in three asks. Focus on your hits, not your misses.
Start with your “easiest” asks first—those you know have the capacity to give or the people closest to you. Build some good momentum and confidence early on.
It’s also important to remember, you aren’t asking for money for yourself but for the cause you are supporting. Rejections can come for a variety of reasons, but they shouldn’t be taken personally. We all have said no to asks for a gift in our lives, so we should understand that those we ask may have similar reasons for their no.
And be sure to be well-versed in what the organization you’re representing does and what a potential donor’s money will provide. They love to know that.
Keep in mind, a no today doesn’t always mean a no forever (unless, of course, someone specifically says that). It often takes three or four asks to secure a gift. And you aren’t bugging someone who said they would give if you send them a reminder, especially as your event approaches.
To sum things up, remember these key points. Then check out our fundraising guide for more insight and ideas to help you succeed.
- The only way to get a gift is to ask
- Don’t take rejection personally
- Be informed about the caused you’re supporting
- Don’t say someone’s no for them
- And most importantly, don’t give up