Fundraising Tip: I Started Using Lists

And I have surprised myself with the results!

Nonprofit fundraising and lists?

I’m always trying to share ideas that work in our world of fundraising, and this one definitely has been working for me. I realize that this topic may seem simple; it’s another one of those things that we tend to think about but not implement.

There seems to be  a lot of solid opinions on whether or not making lists help with getting things you need to do completed.

For years I have met folks, speaking of fellow fundraisers here, who make lists and they work from them. I always thought that this was a great idea for them and I’m glad it worked for them.

Then, last year, while preparing for a development team meeting, I realized that I was one of those fundraisers who works from a list. Just like that! And I had been doing it for some time.

You see, every Monday morning I prepare for different client team meetings. I create a list of items I want to chat with the team about and during our meeting we go over those items. Then, that becomes a check-off list of items I will work on for the week.

It could include meeting with a particular staff member, something to bring up with my client, starting an event invitation or working on a direct mail piece.

The simple fact is that for me, starting the week with a list of items, regardless of whether or not they are already on my calendar or in notes or whatever else I use to plan, helps me considerably.

It shows me the intensity of the week.

It allows me to celebrate as I cross things off.

It keeps me focused, which does not come natural to me.

It allows to continually, throughout the week, check in with others about what we are working on, how things are going with those items, and how others can support.

I could go on. I won’t.

For me, lists work. Or should I say, a Monday morning list for the week works for me.

I have met many fundraisers and work with many fundraisers. I realize we all have our tools that support us and the successes we have. This may or may not work for you. I wanted to share it because it works for me.

Let me know what you think.