What Your Donors Won’t Tell You about Social Media

Supercharge Fundraising Success through Social Stewardship

They like it. More than a phone call. More than a visit.

Give your donors what they like. I’m not saying you shouldn’t phone or visit them at some point. But you’re better off connecting digitally than not at all. And many donors these days will never respond to a phone call. No matter how often you keep trying.

So get real.

When’s the last time you found it easy to schedule a meeting between a prospect and your E.D.? Or to get a group of prospects together at a house party? In this busy world it’s becoming more and more challenging.  But there’s another way:

Find out if your prospect texts, skypes, IMs, Instagrams or… what’s their favorite mode of communication?  It may surprise you. Ask them. You can do it individually, or through a one-question survey on Google Docs or Survey Monkey.

For those who prefer to communicate via social media, stop beating your head against a wall. Join ‘em.

Use social media to host a virtual house party… send quick ‘insider’ updates… wow supporters with creative thank you’s… showcase the impact of your donor’s giving… or otherwise encourage your supporters to engage with you in fun ways – at their convenience. Or simply text them if they’ve given you the green light!

Stop assuming in-person is best.

Not for everyone it isn’t. Read my full article, Social Media: It’s Not Just for Kids Anymore – 9 Adaptive Tips for Fundraisers on Maximize Social Business.

Speaking of treating your donors as they’d like to be treated, join me and 4GOOD next Wednesday for a FREE Webinar on How Creative Thank You’s and Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude Can Boost Fundraising. Hope to see you there!

Photo: Flickr, Denise Rowlands