Recently, I wrote a blog post about the great call I had from University of Queensland (UQ). I often highlight UQ in my blog because the UQ Advancement Office follows best practice.
But, this call was exceptional.
On this particular call, UQ hit all the right points – an expression of appreciation of my financial support; confirmation of my contact details; a request for renewed support; and, a follow up donor care video to thank me for my renewed support.
But, that’s not all!
UQ sent a personal thank you video a week later as an expression of their gratitude. This video included the actual caller expressing gratitude for my contribution.
Every one of us should implement this strategy today! It’s inexpensive, fast, and links the donor direct to the caller. Record a quick thank you message from the person who called the donor, or from a client, or staff person. This highly personal approach is something we can all employ from the field.
Stephen Mally
Stephen Mally brings over three decades of fundraising and non-profit consulting experience.
Having served as a fundraiser in the United States, Stephen transitioned to consulting in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America in 2008. He is the CEO and Director of FundraisingForce, a boutique consulting firm based in Sydney, Australia and Rancho Mirage, CA. As a consultant, he has worked with thousands of schools, universities, and charities gaining a vast amount of exposure to diverse organisations and fundraising programs. Stephen acquired his Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) credential in 2011.
Stephen was named a Fellow of the Fundraising Institute Australia (FIA) in 2017. He served on the FIA Board for six years and currently serves on the CFRE International Examination Committee and, also, the CFRE International Board as its Chair. Additionally, he serves on the board of Pink Elephants Support Network in Australia.