Successful fundraising involves both science and art. Many steps are involved in running a successful program, and getting the necessary donations is usually tricky. Getting people to give to your cause is also very important, as it requires a lot of commitment and hard work.
One of the most critical factors you can consider when running a successful fundraising campaign is connecting with your donors. However, there are plenty of mistakes that can occur in this process. Here are common fundraising mistakes that you should avoid.
- Not Building Relationships With Donors
When running a successful fundraising campaign, you need to build solid relationships with your donors. A way you can do this is by regularly thanking your donors for their contributions.
One of the most critical steps that you can take to make this process as smooth as possible is scheduling a couple of phone calls a week. You can also organize a thank-a-thon, an office event where you can spend the entire day spreading thanks. Social media is another excellent way to build relationships with your donors.
2. Not Measuring Social Impact Correctly
Organizations must develop the necessary skills to measure their impact. They need to know how to allocate resources and time to improve their performance. Unfortunately, many organizations need help understanding how to implement impact measurement.
Aside from measuring the effectiveness of their programs and activities, impact measurement can also help organizations improve their marketing and communications. It can additionally help them get feedback on their programs and activities.
Measuring impact is also very important to retain and attract new donors. New donors are looking for an organization that is reputable and effective. Long-term donors are looking for an organization that is transparent and accountable to its supporters.
3. Not Picking Out An All-In-One Online Website
If you have a great website and a work-of-art fundraising plan that draws thousands of visitors, but the online donation system is not working or is outdated, then you might be missing out on significant donations.
An excellent online fundraising solution should also include the necessary tools to help you manage your donations. These include creating a donation page and a fundraising form, sending automated receipts, and storing and organizing donor information. However, more than these tools are needed these days. You need the necessary resources to support multiple types of fundraising, such as peer-to-peer, text-to-give, and membership campaigns.