Your Different Event Mindset!
Just back from a wonderful experience with AFP Central Illinois.
SO Tremendous to be IN-PERSON for an entire day workshop, “Knowledge to EMPOWERED ACTION! Major Gifts Make the Difference!” I asked the group to share a challenge – and by a landslide the balancing act between building strong relationships with major donors and orchestrating successful events was the winner. It can often feel like walking a tightrope. Both are crucial for a thriving nonprofit, but knowing how to harmonize these two efforts is key to enjoying both more!
The Weight JOY of Event Planning
Anyone who has planned a large event knows it’s no small feat. But let’s revisit our mindset around events. Most of you know that I’m not wild about the staff-drain, countless hours of preparation, coordination, and execution and the toll making everything perfect can take on the team. And will it even raise the dollar goal?
But let’s reframe this. What is the best experience for the giver? While most major givers enjoy their special relationships with the development folks, events have a place. It can actually be fun IF you embrace these mindsets.
- Size matters – and bigger isn’t better.
Several small gatherings can be as or more effective than the cast of hundreds. Stressing over the “turnout” is stressing over the wrong thing. What is the experience you want for your guests? What can the staff manage? How can you make each one feel special? What conversations do you want to have? Who do you want to connect?
- Raising money may or may not be the main goal.
Authentic events that genuinely say, “We appreciate you!” may not raise money that night, but the impact on the donor’s life-long giving will be enhanced. One thing I hear TOO from major donors, “Can you ever say thank you without your hand out?” We must listen! Plus – pure thanks raises OUR JOY!
- Tradition can be good — and weigh you down.
In these turbulent times, the SAME event can actually bring comfort. Something has remained the same. Or… sometimes, letting go of an event that no longer serves its purpose can free up resources for more impactful activities. Where do you feel the joy?
- Partner event engagement with major donor connections.
Sure, it takes time, but engage current and prospective donors all along the way. Ask for advice. Ask to reach out to other donors before the event so there is someone to meet up with when they come. This way you are actually fostering enhanced major giving relationships WHILE planning the event – that’s fun!
- Shut up with the speeches and showcase your organization’s mission and vision.
Provide a fun, engaging experience that reinforces your mission – the kids, recognize honorees in a lively way, showcase volunteers sharing their own stories. Relax a bit and have fun! We did a line dance at the Boys and Girls Club Newark event! What a hoot!
- Pre Raise the Paddle Raises
While the paddle raise can be effective, they can also create a sense of pressure. It’s important to strike a balance between encouraging generosity and respecting your guests’ comfort levels. Best way to do that is to ask most of the attendees to pledge ahead of the event – then they simply participate – already comfortably committed.
- Honorees need to be honored
Selecting honorees for your events is a delicate process. Ideally, they are sincerely worthy of the honor AND are willing to support your mission financially and invite others to do the same. However, this expectation can sometimes put honorees in a difficult position, especially if they feel pressured to give or to rally their network. Be sure to have clear conversations about this so you and your honorees feel good about this!
- STAY ON TIME – or finish early.
Events can be fun to host and plan!
Ultimately, the key to enjoying them is first to DECIDE that you are going to enjoy them! Always your choice. Then, be clear on the event purpose and scope – making sure you can engage donors all along the way to keep the joy of your relationships alive while you execute.
Events should enhance relationships, not replace them and not interfere with building them. The best events are planned so everyone has a good time – including the staff!
Invest in JOY!
