Photo by Anne-Lise Heinrichs
During any campaign, problems may always come up. A common problem, when dealing with donor calls is call aversion: the inability to make personal contact with potential givers. If call aversion strikes you or your volunteers, here are some tips to call on:
- Nothing happens unless someone is asked
The No. 1 reason people don’t give is because they are not asked. Give them the opportunity to experience the joy of giving.
- A “no” is one step closer to a “yes”
A “no” isn’t always a “no.” Sometimes the timing isn’t right . Or the donor needs to speak with a spouse, attorney, business partner or family before making a gift.
- The worst that can happen is someone says “no”
In fact, the person turning you down may feel as uncomfortable saying “no” as you feel making the call.
- Don’t take it personally
There are many reasons a person may decline to give. Rarely do those reasons include you.
- Be proud to be asking
You shouldn’t be ashamed of working for a nonprofit. The gift you’re asking for will make the world a better place for both the giver and the receiver.
- Make a gift yourself
A fundraiser who automatically supports a cause and genuinely is self-assured is a powerful draw for a financial campaign. If you don’t make a gift yourself, how can you possibly ask someone else to?
So the next time your hand shakes before picking up the phone, remember these tips, take a deep breath and let your love of the nonprofit organization shine through.
AMPERAGE Fundraising Advisers is a full-service fundraising company whose mission is to move the needle for our clients. For more information on Amperage Fundraising Advisers or to make a recommendation for a future blog post, contact us today!
