How Can I Help?

The difference between success and failure is mindset.?

It’s a shame being aware of your mindset and adjusting it as necessary is something that receives scant attention.

Except by the top performers.

Whether you’re an athlete, musician, writer, inventor, business executive—you name it—putting yourself in the “zone” before acting is something that those at the top of their game always do.

It's thinking before doing.

Fundraising is no exception.

But what is there to think about, you say??Our cause needs money.?We go out and raise it.?By whatever means (almost) necessary.

After all we’re passionate about what we do.?A noble undertaking.?Donors are lucky to have the opportunity to support us.

If you didn’t feel just a little nauseous after reading the last couple of sentences, you may be beyond help.

If that's the case, God bless you.

If, however, you sensed the ick factor, you may be asking yourself why?

It’s because the mindset of anyone expressing those thoughts is most lkely:

Narcissistic.

Arrogant.

Presumptive.?

Or all of the above. Totally lacking in self-awareness

Clear you head.?Now think of a different mindset.

When approaching someone who may have an interest in your work, instead of telling, ask.

Ask, “How may I be of service (to you)”.

Let that sink in.

Fundraising is about them.?The donors.

Not you.?Not your cause.?Not your organization.?Not your mission.

But them.

When you start with a serious interest in the prospective investor, a world of opportunity opens.

Those who are philanthropically inclined—read “someone who will freely make an investment in the well-being of others”—want to do so on their terms, for their interests, at a level they choose.

The next time you reach out to a prospective investor, put yourself in the service mindset.?In service to them.

EVERYONE in your organization has donor contact of one kind or another.?If it’s only directing a phone call or fielding a question at a business meeting.

This is why organizational culture is fundamental to long-term fundraising success.?

Not methods.?Not technology.?Not metrics. ?Not the credentials of fundraising staff.?Not the size of your budget.

Creating and keeping a culture of service to your investors doesn’t happen by happenstance.?It requires conscious, dedicated effort.?Continually.

That’s why The Eight Principles? decided to make it easy to achieve—and maintain—with our Continuous Learning program.

With the most innovative pedagogy on the market (read “not sitting classroom style to someone talking to 12-point slides”), using Eight Principles Continuous Learning creates the donor service culture throughout your organization.

Once you’ve got it—the culture—a lot of good things happen.?Raise (much) more money (continuously).?Dramatically lower staff turnover.?Significantly improve the involvement and engagement of your board.

Think of a seamless fundraising environment. High production. Low anxiety.

I’d be delighted to explore whether it’s a fit for you.?(It’s not for everyone.)?

Grab a time for a totally complimentary strategy session.?Whether or not continuous learning is for, you’ll have a much clear idea of where you need to go and how to achieve your goals.

To Your Fundraising Success,

Larry C Johnson, Founder, The Eight Principles?