Regardless of your political leaning, you have to admit that Obama has a certain j'ne sais quois about him. Ok, you don't HAVE to. But McCain admits it. I admit it. And you should, too. Obama has charisma, charm, and, here's where he becomes relevant for your nonprofit: the ability to rally hundreds of thousands of the least-likely-to-rally people around him. It commands respect, even from his opponent:
In a contest as long and difficult as this campaign has been, his success alone commands my respect for his ability and perseverance. But that he managed to do so by inspiring the hopes of so many millions of Americans who had once wrongly believed that they had little at stake or little influence in the election of an American president is something I deeply admire and commend him for achieving. ~From Senator John McCain's Concession Speech, Nov. 4, 2008
Millions of Americans once wrongly believed they had little at stake or little influence. Does that sound familiar?
What if you could convince millions of Americans or even thousands or hundreds that they do have something important at stake in your mission; they do have influence for change? That would be a very good day for you.
Successful fundraising isn't about precise formulas to ask for the right amount of money at the right time in the right tone. That piece is important, yes. But true success comes in getting people to join your mission. To be part of what you do. You can't just cash a check. You must engage your donors.
Is the only time your donors hear from you when you ask them for money? If the answer is yes, then you are in big trouble. If you answered, "What? Ask them for money? That's a great idea!" you are in even bigger trouble. Contact us today... you need help now.
With today's technology, there are so many ways to engage your donors, to keep them involved in your mission. Twitter and Facebook make it easier than ever. But you don't have to start there. Nor should you unless you have a specific mission-driven strategy for social media.
You can start with providing a steady stream of fresh content on your web site. Balance need and fulfillment. Tell donors what THEY are doing through you. Here are some other ideas:
- Send a thank you note in the mail. Not in response to any gift. Just a simple note to say "thanks for all you do."
- Remind donors of what's at stake. Why do THEY matter?
- Obama doesn't make it about him. He makes it about YOU. Do that for your donors.
- Give good news. Send at least quarterly newsletters to your donors.
- Finally, for heaven's sake, SOUND GOOD. Eloquence goes a long way. Tell your story to touch people's hearts. I don't care if you wear blue, red, or purple underwear, Obama gave one amazing speech last night. Do that and you'll see people moved to action.
Want to develop the Obama factor but don't know how? We can help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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