Sarah's Shortcuts: "Don't call us; we'll call you"

Occasionally, I audition for local theater productions. Though shows are fun, auditions always make me nervous. Like most actors, I dread hearing these six little words: "Don't call us; we'll call you." (which basically mean, "You call that acting?")

When I was in college, I worked part-time for our annual fund. Speaking with alumni wasn't bad, but occasionally we had to call parents of current students. Considering the high cost of tuition, asking for more money didn't go so well. The six words were shortened to three ("Stop calling me"), but the tone of voice was pretty much the same, and it wasn't a very pleasant experience.

So what do these reflections on rejection have to do with The Raiser's Edge? Glad you asked. It's hard to run a nonprofit without the support of donors, but in order to obtain donations, you have to solicit prospective givers. Hopefully most people will respond well, but there will be some who close the door. The question is whether the door is completely shut and bolted or if they leave it open a crack, indicative of possible future donations.

As you manage your database, you may find it helpful to distinguish donors' levels of responsiveness using solicit codes. For instance, you may need to differentiate between someone who asks not to be contacted as opposed to someone who just wants to be contacted less frequently, someone who is anti-mail but is okay with receiving a call, or someone who seems like she's just having a bad day and needs a chance to refresh before you put your feelers out.  

Solicit codes are conveniently located on the Bio1 tab of constituent records for quick reference. They also serve as an easy way to filter mailings and queries in order to include or exclude constituents accordingly.

By recording prospective donors' initial responses, you can adjust your approach to suit their requests. Respecting their preferences may help you budge the door open wider and shed your organization in a more positive light. Who knows? In time, you may even be able to code them with the "Call me any time!" solicit code.