Every single human being in every single society on earth subscribes to an unspoken rule when it comes to reciprocation as follows:
If someone does something for you, you ought to repay them in kind.
This has been baked into each of our minds as a survival mechanism because cooperation generally helps us stay alive.
You can and should use reciprocity as a tool to raise more money. Here’s why:
The law of reciprocity (that everyone on earth obeys) usually leads to unfair exchanges. In other words, a gift from you to a supporter (that cost you just a couple of bucks) will usually trigger an exponentially greater gift in return.
This works in the private sector too. Free samples. Free trials. Discount offers. They invite reciprocation because they gently make people feel obligated to respond.
I was at the mall last weekend and a nice young lady offered me a free taste of some Kung Pao Chicken. I took it. Then, I felt obligated to buy my lunch from that vendor. Sold! And what did it cost them? A tiny piece of chicken.
Don’t overlook the power of the law of reciprocity— one of the most effective tools of persuasion.
Today, think about what you can give to your supporters that might help you get another visit, a gift or a referral.
Can’t come up with any offers? Give us a call. We know which offers work! We’ve been testing them for years.
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