One of the scariest tasks that pastors and others leaders can face is asking for money. But there are some people that seem to be able to ask for large donations without breaking a sweat. Are these people just born different? Maybe. If you are one of the normal people that doesn’t look forward to asking for donations, Sheri Meister can help you.
There are really two things you need to pay attention to when preparing to make a big ask. First, pay attention to building the relationship. Treat the donor as you would want to be treated. They are not a checkbook attached to a person. They are a person. Don’t just call on them when you want something. If you go to make the ask without building the relationship, get ready to be shot down.
Second, pay attention to building the case. Sometimes when people go to make the ask, they don’t have it clear in their mind the details. The most important thing is: What will be accomplished as a result of this gift? How will the world or the church or whatever going to be better? You should also have a good enough grasp of the strategy for using the gift. You’ll need to know the who, what, when, and where.
Sheri Meister is the primary teacher relying on her decades of experience in the non-profit and fundraising world.
Useful Links
- Presentation Slides: https://www.dakotasumc.org/media/files/old/00/Conference/Finance/StewResrces/Art%20of%20the%20Ask.pdf
- How to have LESS Awkward Conversations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xs81lbTk8Kw