Networking is an essential skill for fundraising, but it can be challenging to find and connect with potential donors at events. How can you stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression on the people who can support your cause? Here are some creative networking strategies that you can use to find potential donors at events.
Before you attend an event, do some homework on who will be there and what they are interested in. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook to find out more about their backgrounds, interests, and causes. Then, use these insights to craft personalized messages or comments that show your genuine interest and curiosity. You can also use social media to share your own story and mission, and invite them to connect with you at the event.
Use caution and your own interpersonal compass. Though that information may be available, there is a fine line between research and cyber stalking. Like, don’t reference their kids names if they haven’t told you them - it’s okay to ask about their family, as means to have a conversation…it’s not okay to say “I saw on Facebook Johnny made varsity.” It can make things awkward.
When I was the head of big Brothers, big sisters, Raising funds on a yearly basis,Most always they are successful, because people are willing to become a part of something, that makes him feel good by helping out needy children, but also rewards them with some fun and enjoyment. Usually the big brothers and sisters would help a lot with gathering a group as a captain of a team. Now with Internet so prevalent, not that I am any longer a part of that wonderful corporation,and efficient thing to do would be use that head people involved in the program that want to see it successful and get a list of names from them and place a general consolidated Promo online to those people that they could then reply back.
When I was the head of big Brothers, big sisters, Raising funds on a yearly basis,Most always they are successful, because people are willing to become a part of something, that makes him feel good by helping out needy children, but also rewards them with some fun and enjoyment. Usually the big brothers and sisters would help a lot with gathering a group as a captain of a team. Now with Internet so prevalent, not that I am any longer a part of that wonderful corporation,and efficient thing to do would be use that head people involved in the program that want to see it successful and get a list of names from them and place a general consolidated Promo online to those people that they could then reply back.
One way to make a lasting impression on potential donors is to bring something memorable to the event that showcases your cause and your personality. This could be a flyer, a sticker, a pin, a bookmark, or any other item that has your logo, slogan, or message. You can use these items as conversation starters, as thank you gifts, or as reminders to follow up with you later. Make sure that your items are relevant, creative, and professional, and that they include your contact information.
It has always been my goal in any given situation to people involved in any type of fundraiser know that they are appreciated. This can be done in so many ways. I tried to make it a lasting impression by both, giving them a keepsake to represent the event before, and sending after even if you need to recruit help to do so, a short appreciation, thank you note
Another way to find and connect with potential donors at events is to join or create a group activity that involves your cause or your skills. For example, you could join a trivia game, a workshop, a panel discussion, or a breakout session that relates to your cause or your expertise. You could also create your own activity, such as a quiz, a challenge, a demonstration, or a game that showcases your cause or your skills. These activities can help you attract attention, demonstrate your value, and build rapport with potential donors.
One of the best ways to network with potential donors at events is to ask open-ended and meaningful questions that show your interest and respect. Open-ended questions are those that cannot be answered with a yes or no, and that invite the other person to share their opinions, experiences, or stories. Meaningful questions are those that relate to the other person's passions, goals, or challenges, and that show your empathy and understanding. By asking open-ended and meaningful questions, you can engage in deeper conversations, learn more about the potential donor's needs and motivations, and establish trust and rapport.
Open ended questions in any given situation always lets the person know that you were interested in them as a person not what they can do for you. Let them talk! Offer suggestions! Share any experiences, or knowledge that you can that would promote their cause and they will always be able to be willing to help you promote yours, caution: make sure it sincere not candy, coated or manipulated or you lose both respect and credibility
I have found donors and sponsors and some of the most unexpected events. It falls back to why people donate; I generally chalk it up to a belief in a cause or a belief in a person. By leading good conversation, asking open-ended questions and generally showing interest in them, you build a strong connection with those you are conversing with. In that conversation, you may uncover their passions, values, and beliefs, which might line up with your cause. They just might be a person to present a donor or sponsor opportunity to. Furthermore, in meaningful conversation, they may grow to believe in you and trust your motivation. They may choose to donate or partner with you, because they trust you and have rapport with you, over your cause.
The last and most important step in networking with potential donors at events is to follow up with a personal and timely message. This message should be sent within 24 hours of the event, and should include a thank you, a recap of your conversation, and a call to action. The thank you should express your appreciation for their time and attention, and should mention something specific that you learned or enjoyed from the conversation. The recap should summarize the main points of your conversation, and should highlight how your cause or your skills can help them achieve their goals or solve their challenges. The call to action should invite them to take the next step, such as scheduling a meeting, signing up for your newsletter, or making a donation.
ALWAYS establish next steps. A casual conversation over hors d’oeuvres is just a small step and lead-in to something more substantial in the future. It’s appropriate to recognize your setting and to agree (if they in fact do) that a more in-depth conversation in the future. Saying “It’s been great chatting, and I don’t want to take up all your time at this great event. I would love to revisit with this conversation another time though. Is there a way to get in touch with you in the next few weeks?” Time at events will be finite and also in competition - so set up how things can move forward.