Sometimes we write emails to donors like this is the only time we're going to talk to them. (That's scarcity talking, btw.) When you do that, you throw up on them. Not literally. You know what I mean. You go on and on about all this awesome information of your organization, updates on what's happening, changes that have taken place, etc. etc. and SOMEWHERE hidden in there is a vague request to hear back from them.

You don't ask for what you need, so you don't get it. Your organization doesn't need another $200 gift. Your organization needs $100,000 or $500,000. And not a restricted gift either, we're talking general operating support, baby! Even when you have the BEST strategy in place, it takes GUTS to execute on the strategy.

I'm going to let you in on my formula that I attribute to how I've personally raised MILLIONS each year from individuals and how I've helped my clients raise 5, 6 and 7-figure gifts over the last 3 years. Listen, this is a bunch of straight talk. If you're ready to GET REAL, then read on.

We must prioritize ENGAGING, COMMUNICATING, and THANKING the NEW donors we got last year if we plan to keep them this year. Stop prioritizing NEW donors over CURRENT donors. This should be reflected on your calendar. How are you prioritizing your time? Spend time reaching out to current donors and getting to know them.

Today I'm giving you the INSIDE scoop on stuff I usually share with clients. Save it, share, it, send it to your board. Get a conversation going about board composition. It's important. And it's the first place we start when I work with nonprofits to build their major giving revenue. Let me make something clear up front: Every board member should be a donor. This is non-negotiable.

It can be so difficult to be able to tell when you're growing as a person. Sometimes when you're growing in character, it can feel like you're regressing. Growth comes when you do more of what makes you uncomfortable and afraid. So, here's how I know that I'm growing in courage.

I wonder if the same people who struggle to ask for money from donors 1:1 also struggle to ask for ANYTHING in life in general. Is this true for you? Do you struggle to renegotiate deadlines when you're running behind and need more time? Or do you RUSH and break your back to make it work?

We prioritize grants over gifts because it's less intimidating to apply for a grant than it is to look someone in the eye and ask them to give their personal money to support your mission. We don't do it because it's more strategic. I'm not saying grants are bad. I'm saying don't prioritize them over individual giving.

We're virtual. And while it looks like there will be some in-person stuff happening in the near future, but maybe you're still Zoom Zoom Zooming it up with your donors. I think that's just going to be here to stay for some donors. So, let's talk about how to make the most of a virtual connection. You ready?

Fundraising coaches are becoming more popular and I love it. Fundraising can be a real challenge, especially when it comes to major gift fundraising, and a fundraising coach is a great idea if you’re looking to not just raise more but be the best.

You can change the world faster. That change that you want to see? The injustice you wanna end? The children who need a mentor? The marginalized community who you know deserves better? Let's create the world where all are equal and fairly treated. Let's not wait any longer to make that a reality. Asking for more makes that future a reality today.

I have managed and worked with nonprofit boards for over a decade and I had a boss for about as long. I can tell you that so much of fundraising growth is about managing expectations and keeping the main thing, the main thing. Distractions are everywhere. Opportunities always pop up.