Think Membership or Fundraising Revenue is Down Due to the Economy?

“The sales of companies who had kept advertising during (a) recession had risen 256% over those who had not.”
— McGraw-Hill Research

In tough times, it’s easy to put marketing on the back burner and then wonder why more revenue isn’t presenting itself. From our experience and numerous accounts from our clients and other business owners we’ve spoken with, one thing is for sure: the more you market, the more your revenue will remain steady and eventually go up.

I became aware of a very successful business person in the same industry and was shocked to learn that his income was cut in half from $20 million to $10 million this year. Of course, when asked what he does for marketing his common reply?  “Not too much, just have a website.”  Unfortunately, we see this frequently.

Many organizations don’t know the positive effects of continually and consistently marketing – they only see money going out. Of course, it’s imperative that you market to the RIGHT prospects. You must know who your target market is. Do you know your target market? If not, you need to find out or your marketing is just about as effective as dropping a stack of flyers in the street and seeing who buys from you.

The great advertising tycoon Morris Hite said, “There is more money wasted in advertising by under spending than by overspending. Years ago someone said that under spending in advertising is like buying a ticket halfway to Europe. You've spent your money but you never get there."

I challenge you to put this concept to the test in your organization. “The more you market, the more business you’ll get.” It’s not too late to strengthen your revenue this year. Whether you market with traditional direct mail, email and/or social marketing know that marketing does bring results when done consistently.

Providing Excellent Customer Service: You never know 'their story'

I know this video has been circulated around for a few weeks and months. But I thought it gave a great visual to not only having patience--but also why we as services providers, Associations and Fundraisers do what we do.

What are Fundraisers Worst Donor Related Dilemma's?

Donor Related Dilemma's aren't just for Fundraisers. If your organization deals with the public in any way...this study is for you.

At the Association for Fundraising Professionals (AFP) International Convention in Chicago, we asked participants to tell us "What was their worst Donor Related Dillemma (DRD)."

The results were overwhelming and give a great insight into what Fundraisers are struggling with in today's economy.

NOTE! These results are not just for fundraisers!  If your organization has members, subscribers or customers-- this study is valuable.

Get the results here along with:

  • Our Top 3 Tips on how to actually solve your DRD
  • Comments from other Fundraisers on what they have done to avoid these dillemmas!

Thank you to everyone that voted and gave valuable insight into what Fundraisers are struggling with today!

DirectAnswer and AFP--A Partnership that Works for Donors!

We were honored to be chosen as one of only 3 Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) members to share our "Story" for their International Convention in Chicago last month.