Tip #9: Be on the Alert (Google Alert, that is)
Oftentimes, we restrict our attention to donors in situations that directly impact us, i.e. when they give a gift, attend an event or volunteer. The reality, however, is that they are likely doing all sorts of amazing things, many of which might have nothing to do with our cause.
If we want to have a stronger relationship with our supporters, we need to make the relationship less transactional.
Google Alerts are a great way to be notified when your supporters make the news, publish information, or are honored in the media. These notifications are incredibly easy to set up, accurate in their tracking of names (although there is a geographic parameter, we’ve found it to be unreliable), and served up directly to your inbox in the frequency that works for you.
As awesome as these alerts are, they are only as good as what you do with them. Take time each week to send congratulations, condolences, or whatever the appropriate response is. Although snail mail is more memorable, an email is perfectly adequate – it really is the thought that counts.
Show your donors you see them as people, respect them as professionals, and value them as far more than a transaction.
– Katie Appold
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