One of the main culprits for poor fundraising results is boring fundraising. Here are seven topics to avoid if you don't want to be a boring fundraiser:
- The things your organization doesn't do. What you don't do is meaningless. Talk about the cool things you do.
- Staff training. Why would anyone care about the amazing conference someone went to, or somebody's new CFRE? Do your job well and talk about the results.
- Your philosophy. Philosophy is important, because it guides your actions. Unfortunately, it's also really, really boring. Talk about your actions instead.
- Your new brand. Yeah, it was a lot of work coming up with it. If it's any good, it doesn't need announcing.
- Anything about the way you run your headquarters.
- How tough it is to raise funds. Please don't kvetch about how hard your job is. Almost everybody's job is hard.
- Awards or certifications you've won. Unless they're from a charity watchdog or other body of interest to donors.
