subject: Top 5 Benefits of Working with Fundraising Consultants [print this page] Top 5 Benefits of Working with Fundraising Consultants
As you review your current funding status during these economic times, one of the best decisions you can make is to consider the benefits of working with fundraising consultants. Every day we read stories about how nonprofits are struggling to keep up with the demand for their services as they are forced to do more with less resources. Although the majority of nonprofits are affected by the economic times, there are those that are fully funded and even raising more than in past years to fund their expansion. The 80 / 20 rule (Prado Principle) is no different today than in more prosperous times; it just may seem that being fully funded is out of reach for some nonprofits.
Many organizations that are fully funded work with fundraising consultants to reach their goals. I have good news for you - there is enough funding to meet your needs, but it may require some adjustments in how you approach funding your work. Since the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting a different result, how do you break out of that rut when it comes to funding your organization? Once of my favorite principles is "There is wisdom in the counsel of many." When it comes to fundraising, you have your staff, board and advisors, but what do you do when you've exhausted their capacity to help improve your funding? The most common next step is looking outside of your organization for a trusted source to help you on this journey.
Here are the top 5 benefits of working with Fundraising Consultants:
1. Results: Fundraising Consultants are in the business of delivering results for their nonprofit clients. Their track record of helping other nonprofit organizations provides the confidence you need to engage them to help meet your goals. Their experience can save you tremendous time and resources and help you raise more money faster to accomplish your mission and goals. Since their reputation rides on your success, they have your best interest in mind and go the extra mile to insure your satisfaction.
2. Experience: Imagine for a moment, the power in having someone available that has not only been successful in your position but has also additionally worked with a large and diverse variety of nonprofits and increased their funding. This broad understanding and experience is invaluable to tap into as you look for fresh ideas to fund your work. Having a bird's eye view of what has worked in other client nonprofit organizations gives them the advantage in bringing proven and creative new ideas to your organization to achieve results.
3. Resources: Fundraising Consultants bring tremendous resources to your organization. These "best practice" resources can save you months of wasted time and thousands in donor's funds. They are consummate learners who compile a large volume of research and information on the latest trends and practical approaches that are working across the country. The typical CEO, Executive Director or Development Executive simply doesn't have the time to stay current on all of this information. With these resources, they can be more responsive and successful in meeting your funding needs.
4. Accountability: Fundraising Consultants hold you accountable for your action items to achieve the desired results. Often they play the role of Fundraising Coach to help you accomplish more than you thought possible. The "coach approach" is one of the most powerful tools to look for in your fundraising consultant. Check out this article (link) for more information on Fundraising Coaching. (Phyllis, I'm not sure if this is advisable, but I wanted to load this in to discuss and can write a Fundraising Coaching article to support it.)
5. Confidence: At the end of the day, fundraising is all about raising what you need to accomplish what concerns you, namely your mission to serve those you're called to serve. An experienced fundraising consultant can build your confidence to increase your funding faster and be available in those times of uncertainty to make the most of key funding opportunities.
