Phrases to Help Turn the Conversation to Money from the First Visit
Dec 26, 2017
Have you ever neared the end of an amazing conversation with a potential donor and found it awkward to just ask?
It can be so hard to turn the conversation to money. You don't want to feel presumptuous or rude - you don't want to hurry this person along or alienate them.
But - reminder - if this lovely person is alienated by talking about giving to your org, they're probably not your donor. And you, successful fundraiser, want to spend your precious time with people who are your donors.
So we want to share a few phrases that have made turning the conversation to money so much easier for us.
- (Nice person), thanks so much for taking the time to chat. You've mentioned a few of your favorite causes. Can I ask where (our awesome cause) falls on your priority list for giving?
- This has been wonderful - I've loved catching up and hearing about your time at (excellent university). And of course you know it's my job to raise money to support (scholarships, faculty, etc.) - have you considered if or when you might like to give?
- So we've talked a little about what the campaign has done for (amazing cause). Does any part of our work connect with what you want to achieve with your charitable giving?
- Wow! Our time has gone so quickly - I've really enjoyed talking with you. Before we go, I would be remiss if I didn't check in on whether you would consider giving to (Awesome Cause)....
Just having these in your toolkit helps ease the awkwardness. Practicing them over and over (and morphing them to fit your style) can take away the anxiety altogether.
It can be a leap of faith to be frank from the very first visit that you're there to raise money. It's worth the risk! Turning the conversation to money from the start builds a real, respectful relationship, a vibrant gift pipeline, and a terrific career.
We are wishing you every success!
- Nancy
