Listen up. In “No” is not the end of the conversation Chuck English channels the old Dale Carnegie manifesto, How to Win Friends and Influence People, and reminds us of the significance of listening — showing genuine interest in others and encouraging folks to talk about themselves. This has always been the key to success,…
DetailsToday I have an article in The Bridge discussing the importance of actively embracing strategic donor relationship-building management. Seriously, there is nothing important you can do this year. It’s all about relationships – and it takes some work to build and sustain them. What are you doing to show your donors you know them?…
DetailsThe last post was about asking. Now we turn to the equally important task of thanking. Where do we go astray? Member # 83,457 Dear Friend, Oh behalf of the board of our charity, thank you so much for your gift. It means a lot and will help us continue to fulfill our mission.…
DetailsI’m pondering the difference between ‘customer service’ and ‘social engagement.’ When we think of the former, we think Marshall Fields and Nordstroms – very early 20th century — the granddaddies of a strong, retail service mo where “the customer is always right.” When we think of the latter, we think decidedly 21st century – social…
DetailsWhat if you don’t write poetry because it’s not black and white and must be interpreted? What if you don’t understand and you’re a straight shooter who doesn’t like ambiguity? What happens when the bleak days of November turn the landscape shades of grey? You feel a dampening, sense a darkening, taste dryness and feel…
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Failure to iver on your promise. This is the cardinal sin in branding. I promised this blog would not just be about philanthropy, but sometimes also about phasion and fun. So… I am following through. Plus I am PROMISING that if you to the Clairification e list, and add a comment to this blog…
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My original title was: Asking the Questions; Doing Something with the Answers. A corollary would be “plan the dive; dive the plan”. In other words, we shouldn’t be diving into things (think about what you’re doing with your brand, website and social media in particular) without first asking some critical questions. I added “clueless” to…
DetailsMuch of philanthropy occurs during holiday seasons. These sacred days – often shared with family and friends — encourage us to lo deeply at our lives, our actions, our blessings, our challenges and our dreams for the future. We think about being a better person… reaching out generously… sharing our blessings… giving back. Recently,…
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Today I just want to let you all know that if you’re not following Katya Andresen, you should. Today’s post is about creating happier supporters. There are some great tips, and this advice could not possibly come at a better time. People are tired of doom and gloom. Give them some happiness. Tell them what they…
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