The 5 Steps of Donor Engagement

by JOE GARECHT
Prevailing NPOs need to build deep and sustainable relationships with their prospects, namely donor engagement.   In order to reap maximum benefit from those in your fundraising universe. 
1. Getting to Know You. 
 The first step is to know the donor, and let them get to know you, by taking the shape of a non-ask event, an introductory meeting set up by a friend of the organization, or a tour of your facility. 
 2. Getting Involved- let the prospects decide how they would like to get involved. 
Inviting your prospects to get involved which preferably might be by letting the donor lead, not a donation, say, asking for their advice on building a stronger organization. “How would you see yourself getting more involved with our work?” 
3. Financial Support 
ask for a small gift. Ideally, you held an introductory meeting or invited your prospect to a tour or other non-ask event.  At this point, some prospects will opt out of further engagement.
4. Access to their Network -- get more people to know you, more than donation
 Keep donors engaged and volunteers and advisors. Stay in touch with them. Then, ask them to introduce your organization to more people. This process can take any of a number of paths: the donor could hold a small non-ask event to introduce you to his or her friends. The donor could send out a letter or e-mail for you, or could invite colleagues to take a tour of your facility. could invite their friends and family to your annual fundraising event. 
 5. A Major Gift 
After obtaining enough of a relationship to feel comfortable to ask for a major ask that appeals to their own personal likes and dislikes, which might be a large multi-year annual gift, an endowment gift, or as part of a capital campaign. Some prospects will opt out of a major gift, others will give. In either case, continue the process by constantly cultivating these donors, seeking access to their networks, and keeping them informed of your fundraising and organizational activities.