I've always been curious and eager to understand how things work, why things are the way they are, and how to improve them. As a child, this curiosity led me to tinker in the garage with my dad, dismantling broken curling irons and toasters to try and fix them. Although I didn't always fix them, I learned a lot about how they worked.
Curiosity proved invaluable when I was developing new systems for a budding non-profit in the late '90s. I sought to understand how larger, more successful nonprofits engaged volunteers, donors, and participants to increase their reach and impact. I attended every available training, interviewed numerous nonprofit leaders, and asked countless questions. One of the most memorable trainings was with the Director of Volunteers Association, Dallas Chapter. They taught me the importance of asking prospective volunteers about their motivations.
This simple worksheet became a cornerstone of my practice, benefiting not only volunteers but also staff and donors.
What has helped me raise the most money is being curious and asking questions. Knowing your donors better starts with being truly curious and not making assumptions. What motivates your donors? Why do they give and what impact do they want to make? What are the challenges they may want to help you with? How do they like to be thanked and recognized?
When I shifted from pushing my own agenda to asking donors and volunteers about their motivations and reasons for involvement, it revolutionized our engagement and fostered a greater sense of personal ownership and engagement. This change led to happier volunteers, board members, and donors, ultimately resulting in increased resources and support for our organization.
Here are some tips to help you stay curious:
1. Ask Open-Ended Questions
Rather than asking yes or no questions, ask open-ended ones that encourage deeper conversation. Questions like "What inspired you to get involved with our organization?" or "How do you see your contribution making an impact?" can reveal valuable insights and foster a more meaningful dialogue.
2. Show Genuine Interest Express a sincere interest in their personal stories and experiences. People appreciate when you remember details about their lives and contributions. By showing that you care about them as individuals, not just as donors or volunteers, you build a stronger, more personal connection.
3. Explore Their Motivations
Dig deeper into why they choose to support your organization. Ask questions like "What aspect of our mission resonates most with you?" or "Is there a particular project or program you are passionate about?" What don't you want to spend your time doing? Understanding their motivations can help you tailor your engagement strategies to better align with their interests.
4. Stay Open-Minded
Approach each meeting with an open mind, ready to learn and discover new perspectives. Be willing to consider new ideas and feedback, even if it challenges your current thinking. This openness can lead to innovative solutions and strengthen your relationships with donors and volunteers.
By incorporating these tips, you can foster a culture of curiosity that enhances your ability to connect with and engage your donors and volunteers more effectively.