Keep Asking The Questions
Hey! How are you? No, really how ARE you?
Things are weird, unprecedented, uncertain…ahh so much bullsh*t language. I honestly think sometimes I might be more anxious and exhausted trying to come up with new ways to talk about what’s happening than what’s actually happening…fellow writers, do you know what I'm saying?
Anyway, John and I and all the Agents hope that you are safe and well…ugh…falling back into the writer’s trap. We hope that you are feeling love, showing love and being kind to yourself.
There are many terrific blogs and posts and papers about the charitable sector’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, including from our heroes at Bluefrog, Better Fundraising Company and The Agitator.
This is not that post. This is a post for you. YOU you. Fundraiser you. Scared to go to the grocery store you. Homeschooling parent you. Self isolating on your own you. We see you all.
As it relates to your fundraising, the best advice that the Agents will give you right now is this: keep asking the questions.
When you’re talking to donors:
Ask: How are you doing?
Ask: What matters most to you right now?
Ask: Is there anything I can do to help you?
Ask: Do you remember why you started giving to us in the first place?
(not in this order because you are having a conversation, not checking boxes)
…And do you know what ? When you actually and actively listened, they will probably ask you:
How are you doing?
What’s happening over there?
What do you need?
Can I help?
Do you want to hear something amazing? These questions for donors can also apply to your colleagues, volunteers, board members and your own family and loved ones.
Oh, and one more thought. A question, really…
Do YOU know what happens next in this story? Do you know how this will impact your workplan, your revenue targets, your future employment?
No. You don’t know the answers. But you can keep asking the questions. Ask yourself. Ask colleagues. Ask donors.
Just keep asking questions.
Sending you all the love and light… <3