subject: How To Manage A Successful Fundraiser - Part 3 [print this page] Key #3 - COMMUNICATE! Key #3 - COMMUNICATE!
In this article we will be dicussing the third part of managing a successful fundraiser which is communication. In our last article ( Managing a Successful Fundraiser - Part 2 ) we discussed important topics including creating a goal, establishing a plan, and identifying leadership.
The overall success or failure of any fundraising event will depend on how well you are able to communicate with your group and how well the group is able to communicate back to you and your fundraising leaders.
The following are some important elements of communication that you should consider
1. The means of communication (telephone, meetings, e-mail, message boards, etc..).
2. The frequency of communication (regular updates on progress).
3. The delivery of communication (the way someone talks, getting the
message across clearly).
The Following Communication Sequence Has Worked Very Well and is Highly Recommended
Investing the time to follow this 10-step communication outline will dramatically increase the overall success of your fundraising event. Remember, anything worth doing is worth doing well!
1. Initial Meeting for Leadership This is where you will establish the why! Keeping a clear goal in sight from the beginning will aid in the entire communication process.
2. Pre-event Meeting At this meeting you will establish the how and the who! Inform your group from the very beginning how you will communicate with each other throughout the duration of the fundraiser.
3. Pre-event Letter/E-mail to Participants and Parents Informing your supporters about the details of your fundraiser before the beginning of the sale will eliminate any surprises. Having an established plan that everyone can follow will aid in the overall success of your fundraiser.
4. Training Meeting for Participants Prepare the organization for success! It is important to clearly explain to all of the participants the proper way to collect funds and stay organized.
5. Kick Off Meeting The official start of the sale! This is a good time to get your group excited about the sale. Motivated leaders and participants will make your fundraiser much more successful.
6. Kick Off Letter/E-mail to Participants and Parents Reinforce the who, what, where, why, when, and how of the fundraiser!
7. Mid-event letter/E-mail to Participants and Parents This serves as a key points reminder emphasizing the procedures that will conclude the event. Include key dates and procedures for turning in funds and any leftover cards.
8. Post-event Meeting for Participants Utilize this meeting to celebrate the success of the event, pass out awards or recognition, and thank the group for their effort.
9. Reconciliation Meeting for Leadership Complete all administrative and financial requirements. The tools that USA Fundraising has developed will make this process a breeze!
10. Post-event Letter/E-mail to Participants and Parents Recap the entire event, share success stories, provide recognition and thanks. It is critical that the why is reinforced at this point. Provide information regarding total funds raised and exactly how they are going to be spent.
For more information on managing a successful fundraiser, please continue reading How to Manage a Successful fundraiser - Part 4
