Better storytelling is always a path toward sparking donor interest. But don’t forget about the power of demonstrating statistical evidence of the value of your intervention. Combining the emotional response of storytelling with hard facts showing your value is the best path toward building trust with your donors.

To spark donor interest, the Art of Asking method emphasizes personalization and transparency. Tailor your communication to show exactly how their support impacts real lives. Share compelling stories that resonate emotionally, and always offer updates on how their contributions are making a difference. Provide multiple ways to get involved, ensuring donors feel connected and valued at every step.

An easy way to captivate a potential donor's attention is to open a dialogue with your existing donors. Encourage replies to your emails, note feedback, and learn how they talk about your cause. Rather than using internal jargon, use the words your ideal audience is using to talk about your cause. This should resonate better with your ideal donor and help them feel more connected to your organization.

When you’re met with donor disinterest, don’t just hit them with facts—spark curiosity! Shift gears and tell a story that makes them feel like they’re stepping into a hero role. Share a vivid, real-life example of how their potential gift could transform someone’s life or fuel an innovative project. Make it personal and tangible. Then, offer them an unexpected way to engage—maybe a behind-the-scenes look at your work or an invite to a unique event that connects their values to your mission. It’s all about creating a narrative that makes them think, “I have to be part of this!”