BloomCon 2017 X Round-up

We just got back from BloomCon 2017! There were so many amazing speakers—we just have to share some of our favorite words of wisdom from the day.

It takes courage to hold a donor cultivation event and not ask for money. #BeCourageous #BloomCon #insight

— Brian Sooy (@briansooy) February 14, 2017

“Donors don’t give to your organization, they give through your organization to fulfill their own aspirations.” @spjoyaux #bloomcon

— Jennifer (@jenniferjane7) February 13, 2017

One of the most important feelings we experience is the need to be known. Remember that when you’re asking for support. #BloomCon

— qgiv (@qgiv) February 13, 2017

Invert your messaging – put donors FIRST, not yourself. Whatever you put first is most important. Don’t send the wrong message. #BloomCon

— Jennifer (@jenniferjane7) February 13, 2017

Takeaway: It’s not all about you! Show your donors that you’re interested in them and their well-being. By getting to know your supporters as people (through appreciation events, surveys, etc.), and not just as sources of money, you’ll create a stronger, longer-lasting bond with them. Knowing your donors and their personal reasons for giving can go a long way!

Successful fundraising is about good customer service=@AdrianSargeant‘s first donor loyalty principle. @thattomahern #BloomCon

— Barbara O’Reilly (@BOReillyWHC) February 13, 2017

Takeaway: A great way to create donor loyalty is to think of your donors as your customers…you need to provide top-notch service! If you worked for a company and your customers suddenly started leaving bad reviews or complaining, you’d immediately want to find out how you could improve your service! Treat your donors like royalty—it’s your job to make them feel appreciated and valued! Check out this article on the topic.

Observation: “No time” is an excuse—not a reason—to not steward a donor. Personalize everything #BloomCon #dontbelazy

— Aespire (@aespire) February 13, 2017

When emailing donors, use the names they gave you in their personal info. NOT the name on their credit card. #BloomCon #ProTip

— qgiv (@qgiv) February 13, 2017

Takeaway: By personalizing everything and paying attention to even the tiniest of details, you can get one step closer to showing your donors you know them. Even your online thank-you page should get some attention.

”I don’t know what board members are for, but they should be good at calling donors to say thank you.” @thattomahern #bloomcon

— Brian Sooy (@briansooy) February 13, 2017

Send donors anniversary card on date of their first gift. It shows you’re paying attention to your supporters per @rachelmuir. #BloomCon

— Barbara O’Reilly (@BOReillyWHC) February 13, 2017

You can never thank too many times. @thattomahern shared example of letter he received with 7 thank you’s! THAT’s #donorlove! #BloomCon

— Barbara O’Reilly (@BOReillyWHC) February 13, 2017

Takeaway: It’s nearly impossible to thank a donor too much. People give because it makes them feel good about themselves. Think of each thank-you as a little drop of joy in your donor’s lives! You can find more ways to thank your donors here!