Relationships matter in fundraising

Asking someone for a donation on behalf of your organization can be a pleasant experience, whether online or in person. Before you ask someone for a donation, you need to consider three basic areas of the whole process:

building relationships with donors, planning the ask and the ask itself. How do you ask for a donation?

The most important thing you should do as someone who raises funds is

to build deeper relationships with donors

. Receiving a larger one-time amount is certainly nice, but building a lasting relationship between a donor and your organization that results in regular giving over several years is far more valuable.

Relationships matter, so it's not a good idea to push too hard. Raising money isn't easy, and that goes double if you're currently in a tight spot. A better strategy is to ask for donations gradually. Try to involve donors in your organization's activities. Organize an event for them, offer them a subscription to your newsletter and build lasting relationships whenever possible.

Before you ask for a donation

Before you ask for anything, make sure you're prepared.

1. Decide who you will ask. Is it an individual? A company? An organization? Who is the best person to approach within the company?

2. Think about what you will ask for. Are you asking for money? How much? Are you asking someone to spread the word about your online campaign? Or to take part in an event as a volunteer?

3. Accept that the answer may be “no”. And that's okay! Even the most experienced fundraisers hear plenty of rejections. Don't let them discourage you.

4. Expect a “yes”. A positive attitude is important when raising funds. Go into every ask believing it will turn out well.

5. Show people the specific difference their donation will make. Your donors will be glad to learn exactly how their donation will help.

The anatomy of a donation ask

You're building long-term relationships, you have your ask planned, and now all that's left is to ask. If you're approaching donors online, we've prepared

. If you're asking for a donation (or anything else) in person, the following steps will help you:

It's a good idea to start the meeting

with a conversation about work, family or what has changed since you last saw each other. Only then change the subject and get to the point. Make sure the person you're talking to understands what you're asking for. Remind them what your organization does and why it matters. Then all that's left is to pose the question and ask for something specific.

Adapted from: http://www.thefundraisingauthority.com/fundraising-basics/how-to-ask/