From Donor Strategies, Inc.'s Barbara L. Ciconte, CFRE, Senior Vice President, Consulting Services

Ten Do’s and Don’ts for Fundraising Success

The Do's

1. Do an analysis of your donors to find out:

• Who your top donors are (largest gifts, longest time giving)
• Where they live
• What they give to
• How they were solicited (personal ask, letter, special event, online, etc.)

2. Review your fundraising plan to see which methods have been most successful in attracting and retaining donors to determine which should continue and which should not.

3. Hold a special staff meeting to discuss how all staff play a role in building relationships with donors and identify specific ways staff can help with fundraising that fits within their individual positions.

4. Start scheduling individual meetings with board members to work with them on how they can assist your organization with friendraising and fundraising.

5. Ask 5 - 10 of your top donors to review your written case for support for how compelling a story it tells about your organization.

The Dont's

1. Don’t stop asking for contributions.

2. Don’t take your current donors for granted.

3. Don’t try to move forward without a plan and strategic direction for your organization.

4. Don’t make severe cuts in your development program expenses because you do need to spend money to raise money.

5. Don’t cut communications with your donors and prospects about the impact your organization is having in the community.