Uncertainty

Most like to lead people to believe that they have it all together.

They want to give off the impression that they have it all figured out, and know exactly what they are doing.

Many development professionals often believe this about their best donors, too.

However, here’s what you need to know… your donors are people too.

They live in the same uncertainty about the future, and very often, they have no one to talk to about it.

This is even more true of the older donors today, who have a difficult time being with family and visiting with friends.

There is so much uncertainty in the world these days, but there is something you can do about it.

You can stand in that uncertainty with your donors by compassionately listening to them about what they are concerned about.

It doesn’t have to be a long conversation, and can be started with a simple conversation starter such as, “If there was one thing that you’re uncertain about as you look ahead, what might that be?”

You could preface the question with or follow it up with, “I’d love to help if I can.”

There is uncertainty everywhere, and it is always there.

A compassionate conversation can make all the difference.