Do you remember what it was like to be a new fundraiser? For some of us, it wasn’t that long ago. For others. . . let’s just say it was longer than we’d like to admit.
But as a new fundraiser, you probably had lots of questions.
Anyone in a new role or a new field has questions at the beginning. The problem is that as we grow in our field and learn things, we sometimes forget what it was like to be the new kid on the block.
We forget those questions we had as a new fundraiser, and then wonder why the new intern or person we just hired is looking slightly panicked with wide eyes their first few months.
So, rather than have the new fundraiser sweat and panic, be sure to answer these questions as they begin work.
What does [blank] mean?
Every field has its own lingo, and fundraising is no different. Conversations about donor value, retention rates, acquisition, and major donor migration are completely natural to people who’ve been in the field for a bit.
But for new fundraisers, all those words are a foreign language.
Take the time to explain the jargon to new hires. Teach them what those things are so they aren’t confused.
And don’t forget to explain the abbreviations and acronyms that your organization uses. What seems like so easy and natural for you is new and unknown to your new team members.
What’s the difference between donor-focused and non-donor-focused?
Fundraisers love to talk about donor-focused fundraising, and for good reason. It’s effective and one of the best ways to communicate with donors. But new fundraisers or nonprofit workers often aren’t sure what the difference is between donor-focused and not.
So what’s the difference?
One builds relationships, the other leaves donors unengaged.
One shows the donor’s impact, the other talks about what the organization did.
We found that the easiest way to explain and show donor-focused fundraising is to show examples. Yes, you can explain what it is (and you should) by saying, “Donor-focused fundraising talks more about the donor than the organization. It’s about ‘you’ versus ‘we.’”
But giving examples really helps new fundraisers see the difference.
Wait, so fundraising is not just asking for money?
New nonprofit workers often run into this realization. Often, until you’ve started working in this sector, you don’t know what fundraising means. To most people, fundraising is selling candy bars or cookie dough for the PTA.
But fundraising for nonprofit organizations isn’t just asking for money.
It’s about building relationships with donors and volunteers.
It’s about stewarding those relationships and nurturing them.
It’s about engaging people who care about the impact they’re making THROUGH your organization.
It’s not about constantly asking someone to give money. Doing that will very quickly damage your development team, actually. Learning how everything fits together will help your new hires start strong!
What about you?
We’d love to hear what other questions you had as a new fundraiser, or maybe even questions you have as experienced fundraiser! Send them to us at: howdy@oneicity.com
