Why you need to follow these 5 keys for communicating with your donors right now
We’re in the people business. All of us who work in fundraising realize that our primary responsibility is to create meaningful and lasting relationships with donors.
Since the beginning of time, those relationships have always been formed through face to face interactions. That way you can really get to know your donor and they get to know you.
However now that social distancing and “hunkering down” are the norms, it’s time to communicate often by going old school. It’s time to “work the phones” and make those calls.
I read recently that some development consultants were stating that voicemails are dead. They claim that you never sound right on voicemails. Voicemails are always too long. You are imposing on the donor’s time by expecting them to listen to a lengthy voicemail. They have a point, but here’s why I think you need to embrace that phone right now. And it’s a good idea to leave a voicemail…if it adheres to the following 5 keys:
1. Write out your message either in word or by hand.
2. Rehearse the voicemail and make sure it’s not more than 15 seconds…10 seconds is ideal.
3. Make sure you have at least 3 bars when you call and STAND UP when you are talking. (people sound more energetic when standing and not sitting)
4. Speak clearly and slowly and smile when you’re leaving the message.
5. Don’t ask for a return call or acknowledgement.
Here’s a sample voicemail that always works perfectly, and in this uncertain time with COVID-19 dominating news reports worldwide, it will be well received.
“Hi Ellen! This is _______ from ______ and I just wanted to check in and let you know I’m thinking about you and we are so honored to be a part of your philanthropy. Stay well during this uncertain time and take care.”
Can you say the same thing in a text? Yes. In an email? Yes. But at least with the phone, there’s a human touch and they will appreciate hearing your voice.
Are emails and text messages important right now? Absolutely…but during a time of crisis, and we are most certainly experiencing a health crisis, the sound of a human voice at the other end will mean a great deal.