Why you should get this Step-by-Step Guide

This is a simple step-by-step guide,  with clearly explained tips, pointers and even sample language, to help you succeed (in spades!) when making a major gift solicitation.

Making an effective ask is not that difficult, provided you know what to do. Unfortunately, there are some common mistakes folks make when asking for gifts — and much of this stems from fear and inadequate preparation. To overcome this fear requires training, inspiration, information, planning and practice.

I call it a “Cheat Sheet”  because you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. This will walk you through some of the common pitfalls so you can avoid them, and will arm you with tools to help you put your best foot forward.

It’s not rocket science.  And, in fact, much of what you need is already within your grasp.  You just may not know it. Or you may need to remind yourself. It’s something you can easily learn to do. It’s just not something most of us are taught.

How much more money could you raise if you felt more confident that you were walking into a situation that was primed for success?

This Cheat Sheet will give you tips to make both you and your prospective donor more comfortable.

How much more money could you raise if you knew how to respond to any objections you might encounter?

This Cheat Sheet will give you tips to handle objections and work with your prospect’s answers.

How much more money could you raise if you weren’t so afraid of rejection?

This Cheat Sheet will remind you that you’re not asking for yourself. You’re not begging. You’re asking on behalf of a cause you believe in!

How much more money could you raise if you just had a road map so you knew how to get from the opening to the ask to the closing, without feeling like a lummox?

This Cheat Sheet will give you handy tips to move from point A to point B to point C, including sample words and phrases that work!

In this easy-to-follow guide you’ll learn the art of taking your appeal from obligatory to… inspiring.  From drudgery  to… joyful.  From lose/lose to… win/win.

“I’m calling because it’s that time of year, and it’s time for me to come hit you up for our campaign.”

“I know you probably hate to get this call, but I’m hoping to twist your arm again.”

“Whatever amount you can give will be appreciated.”

Is this what you or your solicitors are saying?

This Step-by-Step Guide will explain why you should never, ever make statements like these, and will give you great phrases to use instead.  If you feel like you’re begging… if you just hate to make a call to ask for money… if you’d rather do anything else than ask for a specific gift… then this Guide is for you.

WHAT’S INSIDE?

• Frequently Asked Questions
• How to Prepare
• How to Open
• Making Your Case for Support
• The Conversation: Listen and Observe
• Your Specific Ask
• Stay Silent and Wait
• How to Close and Follow Up
• Additional Pointers
• 3 Keys to Success
• Addendum: 10 Key Words and Phrases
• Addendum: Top 10 Secrets to Major Gift Fundraising
• Special BONUS: 15-minute complimentary phone consultation – just for getting the Guide!
  

This is simple. Simple, yet powerful. If you follow these guidelines, you’ll raise more money.  This stuff works. That’s it!