When people think of fundraisers they think of you. Goal-oriented and driven, you keep your eye on the prize and never give up.
Think Olympic athlete! In fact, I once led a training for U.S. Olympic Committee fundraising staff and, not surprisingly, most were Rainmakers!
Making an Impact as a Rainmaker
As the Analytic Extroverts, for you everything is about strategy. Who are the best prospects for you to solicit? How do you guarantee a meeting? How do you make the most convincing ask?
You’ve got a natural comfort meeting new people, and you’re driven by the top prospects as you like to close the biggest gifts. This makes you invaluable to your organization as the newer, lesser known big-gift prospects can be daunting to others.
Since strategy is everything, you’ll reach out to set up the meeting by phone, email, text, or letter – however it’s most likely to get the best response. You’re comfortable picking up the phone out of the blue – something Mission Controllers and Kindred Spirits are less likely to do.
One caution – remember that “the prize” isn’t always an immediate gift. You’re driven to close the deal, but sometimes it’s better to continue the conversation with your prospect rather than closing a gift in the moment. Are you sensing your prospect is ambivalent or has more questions? Make sure to address those feelings, even if it takes another meeting… or three!
My Asking Style is Rainmaker and Mission Controller second. My storytelling skills are being put to the test, however this has given me the opportunity to reach out to our nurses and physicians to hear some of their stories. This is making me a better philanthropy officer as I understand the need and our impact that much better.
Dawn Carmichael, Former Philanthropy Officer
Providence Health Services, Anchorage, AK
Your Secondary Asking Style Makes a Difference
If your Secondary Asking Style is Mission Controller, your analytic side dominates. You come prepared with all the facts and figures, outcomes and strategies.
But visionary and personal stories are important as well, so take the time to meet with program staff or participants so you can share their experiences with your prospects.
If your Secondary Asking Style is Go-Getter, the other extroverted Style, you’re especially comfortable with new prospects.
But watch out: Rainmaker/Go-Getters have a tendency to monopolize a conversation, especially if they’re soliciting introverts. Make sure to leave room for your prospects to talk 50% of the time.
