If you’re in development, chances are you’ve already racked your brain for the best ways to expand your network.
Look around you. Who do you see? Start there.
For those of you working in schools or ministries with gatherings, it’s sadly common for people to only interact with others they know. If there’s a stranger in the pack, they’re usually ignored. Given the silent treatment.
I’ll never forget walking up to a woman at a school event a few years ago to introduce myself just to have her respond in shock and awe. She shared that she’d been involved with the school for twenty years, yet had never had someone introduce themselves to her.
How convicting!
In today’s oversaturated market, it’s shocking how disconnected we truly are. Here are some quick tips for recharging your list.
Connect to Those Who Are Close.
Are there events or gatherings at your ministry? Go!
Starting here is easy because chances are the people you’ll interact with are already interested in the mission you’re working towards.
Introduce yourself. Schedule a time to meet and chat more in depth. Follow up.
Inquire So Others Introduce.
Don’t leave it to others to make assumptions.
While you don’t have to put your position on blast, you can and should confidently inform friends and colleagues of the type of people you’re interested in getting to know.
Is there a skill set your organization needs? Let those around you know. Although it may not be immediate, someone could very likely come to mind down the road and you’ll have already planted the seed for an introduction.
Allow Yourself to Accept
Invitations are likely to pour in when you work in development.
It’s okay to say, “yes.”
However, keep in mind you are human and live in the real world. You can’t say ‘yes’ to everything, and you do have to be thoughtful about where your time is going to be spent that is most impactful.
Consider who the person is and the level of influence and impact that you see them having. What are the benefits of you being positioned to be a guide in that?
I really think that a good way to think about your role and relationships is that you are a bit of a shepherd, a guide, or a gardener who is helping people see specific fruit and results happen from their giving.
Oftentimes, an outing itself may not seem to lend itself to advancement in any way. A weekly round of golf or monthly team trivia at a local restaurant may seem completely disconnected on the surface from donor development.
It’s key, however, to remember the first investment to be made is time; money is second. Each of these touches, though seemingly insignificant beyond their momentary enjoyment, are deposits in the bank of your relationship.
We see the work you’re putting in and are excited for the work to come. Keep on keeping on – we are supporting you, praying for you, and believing in your ministries! I would love to connect with you more personally via text!