How can you build your fundraising skills as a beginner?

To build fundraising skills as a beginner, start by educating yourself through reading materials and online courses to grasp the foundational principles. Actively participate in networking events, joining professional groups, and seeking mentorship to learn from experienced fundraisers. Volunteering for fundraising campaigns provides valuable hands-on experience, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Leverage online resources like webinars and podcasts to stay informed about current trends & best practices in fundraising. Continuous learning, practical involvement, and networking will collectively contribute to your skill development & enable you to navigate the complexities of fundraising with confidence.

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I often think about fundraisers who began their career during COVID. Did philanthropy win them over? Did they find their people - a mentor? a friendship that will outlast the job? Did they experience the thrill of returning to a busy office after closing a gift? I regularly reflect on my earliest years as a fundraiser, even 20 years later. So whether someone is new to fundraising or simply hasn't had the same opportunity to absorb the energy and experience from others, I encourage them to find a forum to do so. Be part of a large team. Be present and open. If you don't find that in a professional setting, build it in your volunteer roles. A new fundraiser doesn't research their way to success; they find it through the people around them.

I've been learning with others when we were fundraising. As an fundraising team member it helps a lot to gain practical skills as well as fundamentals. Important that experienced members include into all processes, provides feedback and help to grow. Fundraising is a useful skill to develop.

Embarking on the fundraising journey as a beginner presents both excitement and challenges, but there are specific strategies to cultivate essential skills. First and foremost, tap into the expertise of seasoned fundraisers by seeking mentors or joining networks, that offer valuable insights and support - this is something that has been personally helpful, speaking from my own experience. Dissect current and historic deals, learn from successful fund raise campaigns of your peers and competitors or any firm or entrepreneur arguably best in your field. Fundraising is not just about soliciting support; it's about crafting meaningful connections and effecting positive change.

It’s very important to keep seeking knowledge so you don’t waste time sharpening fundraising skills if your business or venture is not ready for the fundraising step as you’ll waste time on developing pitch decks and reaching out to people well before it’s necessary so learn about what businesses are fundable whether it’s a for profit or non profit and focus on determining if your business and model could be and focus in the steps to get to that inflection point as as you get closer, than focus on learning all the tips for effecting fundraising but not well before as it could be for no benefit to you or your venture.