You’re a mid-career fundraiser. How can you keep up with the latest trends and best practices in fundraising?

When it comes to major gift fundraising at least, the principles of authenticity, persistence, story listening, storytelling, and vulnerability are timeless in the realm of major gift fundraising. Regardless of how trends and practices evolve over time, these foundational elements remain constant because they are rooted in human connection and empathy. They serve as guiding principles that transcend changes in technology, communication methods, or fundraising strategies. Fundraisers who prioritize these principles will consistently find success in engaging donors, inspiring support, and making a lasting impact in the world of philanthropy.

A great way to keep up with trends is to join peer networks like your local AFP chapter, facebook and linkedin groups and The Nonprofit Hive. More often than not, learning what is working directly from your peers will be more valuable as they have tested these theories out in real time life. Conferences and webinars is also a great way to learn what is trending while also connecting with new people to follow.

Morning coffees with industry journals are a current morning ritual, learning about industry trends to leverage into strategies is cataloged between sips. This journey of discovery is a beacon which guides our team through digital revolutions and donor diversities. Spending time wrapped up in new insights of a really good article, reminds us that amidst the vast ocean of knowledge, anchoring in tried and true practices will always be the most reliable compass.

Joining AFP Charlotte has been like finding my tribe in the wilderness. Surrounded by fellow CAPs and other passionate professionals, our gatherings are often brainstorming sessions. A place where fusion of wisdom and laughter meet. In those gatherings, I often find the missing piece to a current puzzle. The warmth of community reminds me that together, we are the architects of impact. This camaraderie, network, is becoming a secret sauce to navigating the complex world of philanthropy with confidence and creativity.

Many webinars and events are organized by fundraising platform and service providers, and they are usually free. Attend these, and soak up as much as you can from the people that are featured and the data that is provided. Recognize that these are a form of marketing, so you need to be critical about what you hear. But because commercial providers often have the biggest stores of data, and the biggest network of examples, they can be very valuable in building your knowledge of current trends, and in getting ideas on what you might do with your own donor engagement. And remember, you don't always have to attend "live." Almost all webinar offers include the recording which will be sent to you after the webinar if you don't attend.

To keep up with the latest trends and best practices in fundraising, prioritize attending webinars and events. They provide valuable insights and networking opportunities. Additionally, leverage online resources like blogs, podcasts, and industry-specific forums. Tools like fundraising management software can streamline processes and track donor engagement effectively. Stay connected with peers and mentors for continuous learning and exchange of ideas.

Once, on a whim, I decided to experiment with our annual campaign. The idea was simple yet untested: personalize our outreach with stories directly from those we helped. Met with resistance at the time... It felt like a gamble, stepping away from historical methods into the unknown. The result? A flood of responses that surpassed our original goals. Long story short - donors were moved especially at how we shared the stories that touched their own hearts. That experiment taught me a valuable lesson: the power of testing new waters. Turning our old strategy on its head, proves that sometimes, the best way forward is to take a new road, armed with creativity and a dash of courage.

I remember nervously approaching a seasoned mentor for feedback on a campaign that felt more like my baby than a project. Handing over the reins for critique was daunting, but what followed was transformative. My mentor, with his keen insights, gently pointed out the blind spots and illuminated paths I hadn't seen. I appreciated him for that. Each session was a blend of wisdom, encouragement, and occasionally, tough love. The journey of seeking feedback and embracing coaching turned into profound growth. Honing my instincts as a fundraiser with courage to ask for feedback became my most valued tool.