3 Top Takeaways from AFP
Published
Excited and motivated fundraisers buzzing around exhibit hall booths. Hands furiously typing and taking notes. Dozens of experts sharing insights through key notes, educational sessions, and hallway conversations. This was the scene at the Association of Fundraising Professionals International Fundraising Conference. I just got back, and I’m ready to share my top takeaways with you!
1. Make it Personal
Shanon Dolittle asked fundraisers to “bring hyper-personalization to what we do.” Yes, email and other communications should look professional, but they should also feel like they were created and touched by a person. When writing content, think about how you would write to a friend or family member. Be conversational and real. Likewise, connect with donors as individuals. How? Ask yourself these questions:
According to Adrian Sargeant, donor satisfaction is the number one driver of donor loyalty. To satisfy donors, we should inspire them, and make them feel they have done something meaningful. Focus communications on the impact of the donor, not the impact of your organization. The organization fades into the background, and the spotlight is on what the donor has accomplished through their giving.
3. Plan for the Future
Multiple sessions touched on the need for nonprofits to plan for the future. Marc Pitman encouraged everyone to revisit (or create!) a strategic plan to ensure sustainable fundraising. The strategic plan will define for your organization:
Were you there? What did you learn? I’d love to hear about your experience!
Shanon Dolittle asked fundraisers to “bring hyper-personalization to what we do.” Yes, email and other communications should look professional, but they should also feel like they were created and touched by a person. When writing content, think about how you would write to a friend or family member. Be conversational and real. Likewise, connect with donors as individuals. How? Ask yourself these questions:
- What do I know about this donor? Use what you know to tailor communications.
- Did this donor give to a specific project? Follow up with information about that project.
- Where are they in their donor journey? Welcome new donors, thank returning donors for their loyalty.
According to Adrian Sargeant, donor satisfaction is the number one driver of donor loyalty. To satisfy donors, we should inspire them, and make them feel they have done something meaningful. Focus communications on the impact of the donor, not the impact of your organization. The organization fades into the background, and the spotlight is on what the donor has accomplished through their giving.
3. Plan for the Future
Multiple sessions touched on the need for nonprofits to plan for the future. Marc Pitman encouraged everyone to revisit (or create!) a strategic plan to ensure sustainable fundraising. The strategic plan will define for your organization:
- What you do and why
- How you do it
- What resources you have
- Who you will tell
Were you there? What did you learn? I’d love to hear about your experience!
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Raiser's Edge® Blog
04/05/2016 4:31pm EDT
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