Nonprofit organizations are built on connections. But where do these connections start? Often with a chance conversation.
Liz Larsen directs Project BEE, an anti-poverty organization that runs an emergency shelter. Plans for a new building were well underway in November when a Facebook exchange led to a big gift.
Like many of us working in the nonprofit sector, Liz is passionate about sustainable living. Her interest in gardening and being a better friend to the planet inspired her to make a comment on a like-minded Facebook group.
A friendly reply came from a woman new to the area. This led to more conversation and a plan to meet up and talk. Breaking out of Covid isolation, Liz looked forward to meeting her new eco-friendly connection at a local coffeeshop.
Everyday you have opportunities to talk to people including perfect strangers on the grocery line, neighbors, gym mates, and family members. Or, like Liz, online. But how do you make the most of those chance meetings?
Before we get started, hop on over and download my e-book, The Secret to Nonprofit Success. That’s where I reveal the key to the powerful communication that will make you successful.
When you become a great conversationalist you also become a magnet for people. You have the power to inspire them. They want to be around you, they care about what you care about, and they will be your best supporters and biggest donors.
Over the course of two hours at the coffeeshop, Liz also took the opportunity to share some stories about her work with the homeless and the plans for a new building.
As they got up to leave, her new friend asked Liz to wait a minute. To Liz’s great surprise, she handed her a check for the organization!
These 7 Steps to Happy Donors will work for you. You can use these today and everyday to build relationships with your current donors and to get more volunteers, advocates, and donors.
You want to make every conversation count. It’s a great skill to have and easy to master in 7 steps:
- Smile with your eyes. Wearing a mask has proven it – the eyes have a lot to say. Look directly at your new connection and smile. I’m not talking about a fake smile, you need a sincere “I love to listen to you” smile. One that shows you are fully engaged, interested, and darn glad to be with them. This even works via Zoom. A photographer taught me years ago to flirt with the camera. I was amazed at the difference it made!
- Share your passion. Your work has meaning and purpose. That’s sexy. When it’s your turn to talk, do it with enthusiasm. You can become really good at talking about the dream of your organization. It takes practice, so get started!
- Listen. Active listening is a learned skill. Really pay attention without thinking of your great comeback. This conversation is about building a relationship. Lean in, look interested, BE interested!
- Ask questions. Show your curiosity. Getting to know your new acquaintence will help you discover common ground and will lead to the opportunity for continued conversation. You aren’t asking for anything (that will be so easy when you get to it, but not yet), you are deepening the relationship.
- Tell your story. You are interesting. You have a story to tell that people want to hear. Dig deep in your soul and tell the story of your passion for your work. Collect stories that vividly show your work and your success, so you are always ready to share them.
- Offer connections. Offering 1 or 3 good connections is a powerful way to build the relationship (and the more connections you offer, the more you receive!). Think about who you know and how you can help your conversation partner. You are creating more common ground between you and helping them at the same time!
- Plan a next step. You don’t want to walk away without a plan for the future. Share contact information, extend an invitation, or schedule a visit or tour of your organization. This is just the beginning!
These conversation tips work on Zoom but they are oh so powerful when you meet in person. I hope you have a safe opportunity to do that this week!
As for Liz, her surprise donor has become an advocate for Project BEE. She recruits volunteers, shares the good news, and is always checking in to make sure their needs are being met.
Meeting strangers on the Internet isn’t always a bad thing!
Merle Benny, Nonprofit Champion.
Merle is the voice of Nonprofit Champions everywhere. She writes and speaks to inspire more nonprofit leaders in the community and world. She loves connections! Email merle@nonprofitchampion.com or follow Nonprofit Champion on Facebook or LinkedIn.