Time Management Tips for Fundraisers
Fundraising for non-profit organizations is a noble endeavor, but it can be a challenging and time-consuming task. You need effective time management strategies to maximize your efforts and stay motivated. This article will provide valuable tips and motivation to help you efficiently fundraise for your mission.
1. Set Goals and Objectives:
Start by setting SMART goals for your fundraising efforts. SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. Break these goals into daily and weekly targets to maintain consistent progress.
2. Prepare and Pray:
Begin each day with 30 minutes of preparation and prayer. Starting your day seeking guidance through prayer and spending time with the Lord will set your heart in an accurate position to begin this journey. This dedicated time ensures that you plan your fundraising strategy wisely and allows you to prioritize the tasks you will accomplish each day, leading to more effective and purpose-driven efforts.
3. Create a Daily Calendar:
Organize your day effectively with a daily calendar to stay focused and ensure you have enough time to work towards your fundraising goals. Here's a sample daily schedule:
8:00 AM-8:30 AM (Daily Preparation & Prayer)
9:00 AM-10:00 AM (Admin & Emails/Goal: 20 emails)
10:00 AM-12:00 PM (Calls/Goal: 20 calls)
12:00 PM-2:00 PM (Meetings)
2:00 PM-3:00 PM (Break)
3:00 PM-4:00 PM (Admin & Emails/Goal: 20 emails)
4:00 PM-6:00 PM (Calls/Goal: 20 calls)
4. Create and Follow a Process:
Establish a structured process for your fundraising efforts. We recommend an eight-step process that includes emails, calls, and social media outreach.
Funding Tribe 8-step process:
Initiate a mass campaign email to all potential donors.
First contact: Phone call, voicemail, and text message.
Send a personalized email as the second follow-up.
Second contact: Phone call, voicemail, and text message.
Continue with a third customized email.
Reach out through social media with a message.
Third contact: Phone call, voicemail, and text message.
Conclude with a final follow-up email, the fourth in the series.
5. Focus on the 20%:
Prioritize tasks with the highest return on investment, following the Pareto Principle (the 80/20 rule). Focus on face-to-face meetings, phone calls, emails, networking events, and administrative tasks to ensure you prioritize tasks that will lead to people joining your team.
6. Be Smart with Time Tracking:
Use time-tracking tools to identify time-wasting habits and make informed adjustments to your time management strategy. Managing your time efficiently now prepares you for success in the future.
7. Plan Around Potential Donors:
Align your schedule with potential donors' availability by researching their interests and routines. Late mornings (10 AM to noon) and late afternoons (4 PM to 7 PM) are often the best call times.
8. Get to the NO Faster:
Quickly identify unproductive leads and avoid investing excessive time in them. We recommend making eight reach-outs before moving on, focusing on promising opportunities.
9. Create Email Templates:
Save time by using email templates for common communication needs while personalizing your messages. Templates can streamline your outreach and follow-up efforts.
10. Ask, Ask, & Ask Some More!
Include clear asks in all your communications. Every email, text message, phone call, voicemail, and face-to-face meeting should have a clear request. The more you ask, the more likely people will say "Yes" and join your mission.
Incorporating these strategies will help you be more efficient and motivated in your fundraising efforts, ultimately supporting your mission work effectively. Stay inspired and dedicated to your noble cause, knowing your time is wisely used to make a positive impact.
