There’s a ton of information out there about how to ask for a donation. Here’s a 52-page report from AFP (link removed – report now offline) on the subject that talks about a lot of stuff. But, sadly, only a few sentences in the entire report actually focus on the moment of truth— when you ask for the money.
 
So I thought I’d help with what I believe is the simplest way to prep for your next big ask.

  1. Print the cheat sheet below
  2. Review your notes about the prospect (his/her wants, needs, desires and philanthropic goals)
  3. Think
  4. Think some more
  5. Write your answers beside the questions
  6. Think some more
  7. Possibly talk to your friends about your answers (the experienced and successful ones)
  8. Talk to some donors about your answers to get their perspective
  9. Think some more
  10. Practice out loud

 
Did you just say to yourself, “Nah, I can wing it”? Don’t!
Lawyers practice law.
Doctors practice medicine.
Heck! Basketball players practice.
True professionals prep. Print it out!
Congratulations… you’re ready!

Related Posts

>> New tool helps determine your asking style so you close more gifts
>> Are we sometimes asking donors the wrong questions?
 

Reccomendations from other nonprofit blogs

>> Have asking anxiety? Do these 5 things
>> 7 tips on asking for donations — It’s intimidating, we get it
>> The do’s and don’ts of soliciting charitable donations
 

Greg Warner

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Greg Warner

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