Don’t Make Another Donor Call without These 4 Steps

One of the greatest hurdles our clients have to overcome in fundraising is the dreaded phone call.

You procrastinate making your phone calls.

You're dreading interrupting the lives of the people in your life to ask for money.

But eventually, you run out of things to do, and excuses to make, so you pick up the phone and dial the first number…

As it rings you start to sweat.

Your throat starts to feel constricted, and your mouth goes dry.

You are trying to remember what you were going to say, and suddenly someone answers on the other end...

“Hello?”

You swallow your fear and end up having a lovely conversation with them and set up a time to meet next week. They sound genuinely excited and you walk away wondering why you were so worried about making the call in the first place, as you finish your list for the day. (Until next week, of course, when you have to dial your next set of numbers and it starts all over again…)

If this sounds anything like you, here’s what you need to do:

1. Remind Yourself of the Truth. We've all experienced these feelings. It's normal and it's natural. But you must remember those feelings are not the reality. You are inviting people to make a difference in the world through the work they will be a part of. It's exciting to give them the opportunity to invest in eternity through you!

2. Get Past the First Phone Call. It will be better than you imagine it being, and it will give you energy to make more phone calls. It only takes a few minutes, so make the first call.

3. Don't Wait! Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) once said, “Eat a live frog first thing in the morning and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day.” If making a call is holding you back from stepping into the next chapter of your calling, then don't hesitate—gobble your frog and get to the field!

4. Get Prayers. Lastly, get prayers. So often breakthrough happens as a result of others praying for you. If you're nervous, share that with your team and get them praying. Then, watch as God brings energy and peace to you.

Dustyn Burwell, Fundraising Coach

Serving in Dublin, Ireland with my family is a joy and I spend most of my time investing in ministry. When I’m not serving or coaching another missionary on fundraising, you can usually find me hanging out with family at one of the castles, relaxing near a beach, or having meals with friends.

To work with one of our Tailored Fundraising Coaches on making a successful donor call script, contact us at www.tailoredfundraising.com.