We like to think that those who support our cause do so because they see the merit in our work and the positive effect we have in the community we serve.
Sorry to break the bubble, but that notion is fiction. A warm, reassuring fiction, but fiction nonetheless.
Principle 1 of The Eight Principles™ is Donors are the Drivers®. Donors drive the philanthropic enterprise, and so fundraising, with their values and visions. Not ours.
Our job is to know those values, learn the intersections between theirs and ours then appeal to their better nature.
Everyone likes to think they’re ahead of the status quo. Everyone knows what “good taste” is when they see it.
Good taste is particular to the donor or group of donors, however. And it’s not necessarily YOUR taste.
You may think the height of sophistication is pairing brown with blue. In certain social circles this does define good taste. But your investor may think that brown and blue never go together.
Go with the donor. Why? Go back to Principle 1.
What passes for “good taste” is subjective to the viewer and constantly changing.
When reaching out to secure investors for your cause never forget this. So many organizations do forget when they make the same appeal in the same way, year after year.
Seen anyone wearing spats on their shoes, lately? Anyone even know what “spats” are?
Always do things in good taste—your donors’ taste, that is.
To Your Fundraising Success.
