The success of a major gift officer in their fundraising efforts is directly tied to the internal relationships they foster within their organization. University leadership, faculty, and staff stand as indispensable allies in the quest to identify new prospects and guide them towards meaningful contributions. The more robust these internal relationships become, the greater the financial support that can be garnered.
The value of these internal partnerships is unmistakable, but cultivating and sustaining them is an ongoing effort for fundraisers. Here are 10 invaluable tips to ensure the cultivation of robust internal relationships:
- Publicly Acknowledge and Appreciate: In any public forum, such as college meetings, take the opportunity to express gratitude to faculty and staff, recounting the ways in which they have contributed to fundraising success. For an added touch of personalization, consider employing a “Pathway to a Gift” approach.
- Share Alumni Mentions: When engaging with alumni who speak positively about a particular faculty member, be sure to relay this feedback to the mentioned faculty member. Acknowledging their positive impact can go a long way.
- Inquire About Top Alumni Contacts: Consult with faculty and staff to identify the most successful alumni they maintain contact with. When reaching out to these alumni, mentioning the faculty member’s name can enhance the connection.
- Involve Them in Stewardship” Encourage faculty and staff to participate in the appreciation process by signing thank-you cards or creating thank-you videos for donors they have assisted. Sharing the acknowledgment letters sent to these donors reinforces their invaluable role.
- Attend and Present at Meetings: Make an effort to attend college meetings and request opportunities to present how your support can be a valuable resource for faculty and staff in their efforts.
- Credit Where Due: Attribute credit to faculty members when gifts are received. Inform deans and other relevant stakeholders about faculty contributions to fundraising efforts.
- Build Personal Connections: Foster trust and rapport by engaging in casual conversations in hallways and at coffee machines. Establishing yourself as a relatable individual can strengthen relationships.
- Provide Regular Updates: Keep faculty and staff informed about what is happening in your world of fundraising. This not only reinforces your role but also generates potential leads.
- Show Appreciation with Lunch: Recognize the significance of faculty and staff partnerships by treating them to lunch, celebrating your collaboration.
- Invite Faculty to Share Insights: Elevate the status of faculty and staff as partners by inviting them to present at your advancement meetings, emphasizing their invaluable contributions.
In the grand scheme of fundraising, internal relationships take precedence over external donor relationships, as the foundation for success is built upon these collaborative partnerships within your division. These faculty partnerships are indispensable for acquiring leads and nurturing high-value prospects, making them the cornerstone of your fundraising efforts.
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