Why are we reducing our direct mail solicitations from 4 per year to 3?
Why are we no long conducting a phonathon to interactively engage donors and invite their gifts?
Why are we continuing to plan for the next gala?
Why are we no longer printing our magazine and only creating a digital version?
Why are we planning that trip to visit Florida donors in February?
If the authentic and first response to these types of questions is based on implementing a sound and fully-planned strategy designed to help us reach specific advancement goals, then we are most likely making the most fruitful decisions for our institution.
If the authentic and first response to these types of questions is based on saving money, we may not be making the most fruitful decisions for our institution.
However, if the authentic and first response to these types of questions is based, in any way, on our convenience, comfort, or ease, we almost assuredly are not making the most fruitful decisions for our institution.
Important to remember that advancement supports and serves the institution, not the other way around.
When our decisions point to delighting others, to gathering more resources for others, to enhancing how others view our institution, we are most likely doing the work most effectively.
This article was originally posted on Jason’s Blog in May 2023. To read more, visit www.jasonmcneal.com.
