The You:Me Ratio

I've been on both sides of the fundraising table, as both the Asker and the Giver, so I've learned a few things about asking effectively to get what you want from the Giver.

Here is the absolutely most important element in asking: The You:Me Ratio.

It's pretty simple, really. Givers give if you've fulfilled their giving needs. If you're only focused on what you need, it's not likely to get the Giver's attention and motive them to give much, if anything. Sure, you can guilt a Giver into giving something once, but you want to build lasting relationships with Givers, I think.

Here is how the You:Me ratio works. In this formula, You is the Giver and Me is the Asker. Got it?

Now take a look at a recent appeal letter or sponsorship request your organization has developed. Get a red pen and a green pen. Every time you see your organization's name, or words "we" or "us" or "our", circle it in red. Every time you see the potential Giver's name, or the words "you" or "your", circle it in green.

If you've focused on what's in it for the Giver to give, you'll have more green circles. But if you've focused on what you, the Asker, wants, you'll see more red circles.

Your appeal, or ask, is more likely to result in a higher return when you focus on the Giver, not on the Asker.

Try it. What do you think?

More practical fundraising ideas in "FUNdraising! 180+ Great Ideas to Raise More Money". Go to www.createspace.com/4087379.

Jean Block
wwwjblockinc.com