Fundraising for Introverts

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Hello, lovely readers! Tammy Zonker here, and I'm thrilled to bring you a juicy scoop from our recent episode on The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast. I had an amazing conversation with the incredible Brian Saber . Get ready to soak up some major wisdom!

Let's kick things off with the man, the myth, the legend – Brian Saber. He's been in the nonprofit game for more years than I've been alive (tiny fib), and I can tell you that's quite a few! His contributions to the fundraising world are game-changing.

But here's the thing, it wasn't always rainbows and unicorns for Brian. Nope, he had his fair share of ups and downs. His story serves as a valuable reminder that fundraising success isn't about quick wins but about planting seeds and letting them grow. So, if you're thinking about giving up because your efforts haven't blossomed yet, don't! You're just in the process of cultivating greatness.

Shifting from Success to Significance

Now, let's pivot to my journey to nonprofit fundraising. I'm no stranger to the winding path of life and career, that's for sure. My journey wasn't a direct shot from point A to point B, but more like a twisting rollercoaster ride. In the corporate world, I realized I wanted to make a more profound impact on the world. So, I took the plunge into the nonprofit sector.

What's the key takeaway here? Well, it's the whole "shifting from success to significance" part. Instead of chasing personal glory and riches, I decided to follow my heart and create meaningful change. It's a decision that led me from big brand technology consulting to becoming Development Director at a Girl Scout Council in Northeastern Indiana and, ultimately, founder and president of Fundraising Transformed, an international fundraising training and consulting firm.?

Remember, it's never too late to start making a difference. And who doesn't want to be a change-maker, right? So, don your cape and leap into the world of fundraising with passion and purpose. Already in the sector? What's your next level of growth and contribution to the world?

"If you only do fundraising events, you're missing half the donors – the introverts."

– Brian Saber, Asking Matters

The Power of Listening

Okay, now that we've got our origin stories out in the open, let's dive into Brian's pearls of wisdom! One of his favorite standout quotes is this gem – "No one ever listened themselves out of a gift." by the immortal Jerold Panas. Just sit with that for a moment.

Fundraising isn't just about asking for money; it's about building relationships. Brian stresses the importance of being a masterful listener. When we listen with intent, we create the foundation for authentic, long-lasting connections. And those connections are the superpower of successful fundraisers. So, remember, it's all in the ears.

The Art of Building Relationships

Building relationships – that's what it's all about, according to Brian. It's people, not spreadsheets or fancy systems, who drive philanthropy. Trust me, I've seen my fair share of fancy CRMs, and they're excellent tools. But Brian's wisdom tells us that building relationships is at the heart of what we do... just be sure to put your notes in the database!

Navigating the World of Fundraising for Introverts

Now, let's chat about Brian's side of the story, the fundraising for introverts part. He's worn the introvert badge with pride. His newest book, "Fundraising for Introverts," dives into the art of using introverted traits as your secret superpowers. It's all about taking those quieter qualities and turning them into fundraising strengths.

The crux of Brian's advice is this: "Believe in your gut." Trust your instincts because they can lead you to real, authentic connections. You also need to equip yourself with the right tools for the job. Learning, growing, and improving your skill set are all part of the game.

Elevate Your Fundraising Game

Brian and I want you to carry these insights with you. Fundraising isn't just about asking for donations; it's about connecting with people and their values, making a difference, and transforming lives.

So, whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, don't forget to tap into your fundraising superpowers. They're the key to creating a more significant impact. The full episode is brimming with all the wisdom you need, so make sure to give it a listen below.

Remember, we're here to inspire you, and I promise you'll be inspired. Our aim is to provide you with the tools and insight to transform your fundraising endeavors, so you can ultimately transform the world.

Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below! Let's keep the conversation going!

Stay tuned for more incredible episodes of the Intentional Fundraiser Podcast. We're here to help you succeed, one inspiring conversation at a time!

#FundraisingSuperpowers #TransformationalFundraising #ListenToYourGut #IntrovertStrengths #MakingADifference