8 Key Ingredients That Build
Collaborative Relationships

One

Put the Person First

Make the relationship the goal, not the sale of a golf team or an annual gift. Share some of your time on their agenda. Connect and build trust.

Two

Be More Curious

Bring your interest in others to work. People are drawn to you when you show interest in them. By sharing some of your history and interests, you’ll discover they’ll share back with you.

Three

Reach Out and Connect

Practice behaviors that show people, above all, that building a collaborative relationship is your first priority. Share “one-on-one” time with people important to your mission, exploring what is important to them.

Four

Be More Open and Vulnerable

Discuss what your organization does well, plus one or two challenges you face beyond raising money. Don’t hide behind the mission. Let your donor know who YOU are as a person, parent, and citizen. Vulnerability shows honesty and honesty builds trust.

Five

Uncover Shared Interests and Values

Look for the clues, they are everywhere. Observe the magazines they read, their awards, photos, music they listen to, their style of dress. Then most importantly, ask them about them.

Six

Ask Questions That Build Trust

I was born in __________. Are you originally from here?
My spouse ____ is a ______. And your husband/wife?
My son ____ is 18, and he’s off to State University next year. How about you?
I’ve been with the organization as _______ for _ years. And yourself?
What community interests do you (and your spouse) have?

Seven

Listen, Really Listen

Give stakeholders plenty of time to express themselves. Talk only about 40% of the time. The more you know about a person, the better you can help them impact your mission.

Eight

Stay Connected

Use the power of you in your conversations. Take the time to process what they are saying. Embellish their response by sharing your thoughts and experiences. Show you care.



Pick your two favorite and try them out for a month…

you’ll be amazed at the impact you will make.

Marshall Howard, is the author of the critically acclaimed learning novel “Let’s Have Lunch Together” and 24-year relationship fundraising coach. In his learning events and programs he shows nonprofits, big and small how the power of relationships can raise major gifts and turn leaders into a team of fundraising champions.


Call me Toll-Free, I'd Love to know how they worked for you…877-320-9202