The dos and don’ts of building a fundraising strategy – part 2

So, you have read the first part of our fundraising strategy guide and you’re now ready for the rest of the info we have for you. Have you tried some of the strategies we’ve shared with you in the first part?

In this second installment of our fundraising strategy guide, Craigmyle Fundraising Consultants shares the don’ts that you should avoid at all costs when building your fundraising strategies:

Don’t Assume Your Audience Knows All About Your Organisation

Even if you have worked to build your brand and are at the top of your peer organisations, it is important to always remember that your audience does not feel the same connection that you do. You may be in a position where you can educate a large number of people about the work you do. However, there will be people who are completely new to your cause. It is important to give them the information they need to understand it.

Don’t Overlook Different Income Streams

Many small nonprofits do not consider the full range of income streams, whether it’s corporate giving, major gifts or legacies. This is a mistake. Organisations should consider which streams could work for them and how. When reviewing options, consider what resources you will need and don’t forget to consider all potential benefits, including a wider donor base, increased awareness/recognition, and life time value.

Don’t Use Outdated and Ineffective Processes and Technology

If you are using technology that is quickly becoming obsolete, you are wasting time and money. Updating technology reduces the number of errors and lengthens the time it takes to complete tasks. It is crucial that you learn as much as possible about current technology so you can select the right tools to meet your organisation’s needs.

Don’t Forget to Follow Up

Many organisations work to generate donations but put little to no focus on follow-up. This is an oversight that will cost you time and money. Follow-up is important for ensuring that your organisation does not lose donations, but also for ensuring changed behavior. Perhaps, a person promised to make a donation during their last interaction with your organisation. Personalised follow-up can help you to get the donation.

Don’t Hesitate to Reach Out for Help

Being a nonprofit can be challenging. Even the most well-run organisations need help at times. If you find yourself needing a boost, there are a number of resources available to you. One of the best is a fundraising consultant. If you need help with developing a strategy, making plans, or executing a plan, a fundraising consultant will be able to step in and help.

Don’t Push Too Hard

In the fundraising world, it is important to be persistent and to know when to ask again. You should never feel like you’re being pushy; subdued persistence is the right balance. A good rule to live by is that if you get a no, you should ask again at a later time. This works for two reasons. One, people remember the charity that doesn’t give up. Two, it gives your organisation the time to develop your case, and look to cultivate relationshipS.

Conclusion

 There is a lot to consider when you are developing fundraising strategies. It is important to not overcomplicate things. Use these “do’s and don’ts” from Craigmyle Fundraising Consultants as a guide for creating the best strategies for your organisation’s needs.

Craigmyle Fundraising Consultants is one of the most trusted fundraising consulting firms in the UK that can help you with your strategies so you can raise the funds you need for your cause. Contact us today to know how we can help you!