New Mindset, New Results

By Kimberly Leskovec

A main source of revenue for nonprofits comes from their donors. Many nonprofit workers get so caught up with raising money for the cause that they forget that these donors are people too. The Chronicle of Philanthropy explains how a positive mind-set can improve fundraising and ultimately help one achieve life happiness.

The podcast talks about the importance of asking questions and how it affects the mind. The mind has a way of searching for answers to questions by looking at past experiences and what feelings stem from those experiences. Nonprofits should think about asking questions that will talk about donors as people rather than fundraising objects. When you ask questions that are concerned with the happiness of donors it shows what you value over money.

Start to focus on donor satisfaction by:

• Authenticity/Genuine Respect: People are more likely to give to something that they trust in; something that is looking out for their best interest. One way that you can build an authentic relationship with your donors is letting them know where their money is going and how it is currently helping the cause.
• Listening with an attitude to best serve the donor: You can show your understanding of the donor by taking their personal experience and sending messages that express concern to those feelings and emotions.
• Help find donors a giving opportunity that brings them joy: Make sure your donors are thanked by sending out a card, e-mail, or letter every now and then. The more they feel like they are making a difference and gaining a personal connection the happier they will feel about giving.

It is important how we use our words in the nonprofit world. We have to be careful not to get caught up in the money and instead, be more focused on why we support the cause. Using a positive mindset and gratitude to focus on your donor’s happiness and desires will increase your life happiness and bring outstanding results for the organization.

About the blogger: Kimberly Leskovec is a junior studying Communication Studies at the University of Iowa. She is also pursuing a Certificate in Fundraising and Philanthropy and a minor in Human Relations. She is interested in improving her knowledge of fundraising as well as learning the necessary skills to be effective in the non-profit world. In her free time, she enjoys running, spending time with friends and family, watching movies, and hiking.