No Fear Fundraising

For certain people, fundraising can be quite an anxiety-riddled undertaking.  Just the simple act of approaching someone to ask for a donation can turn a person's stomach.  But why?  Your heart is in the right place.  Your trying to raise money for something you're truly passionate about.  Fear is the last thing you should be experiencing, right?  Well, unfortunately, fear comes up for a lot of people when it comes to fundraising. But we're here to help...

The following are 5 easy steps to what we like to call "No Fear Fundraising":

1. Speak From The Heart
This should go without saying, but sometimes people get caught up in an overly rehearsed pitch that lacks enthusiasm.  Passion is contagious, period.  Speak from the heart and whether you receive a donation or not, your potential donor can't help but walk away inspired by your enthusiasm.  Plant the seed of enthusiasm!

2. The Worst They Can Say Is...
No.  Really.  That's the very worst that can happen.  It's just two little letters.  You're not in danger of mental torment or physical violence.  People say no all the time.  This time they just happen to being say no to you, which leads us to...

3. Don't Take It Personal
You never know what someone has going on in their life, financially, emotionally or otherwise.  You may approach someone and they may be short or even rude to you.  Don't take it personally.  And don't be afraid to smile.  You never know how you can affect someone's day with a simple smile.

4. Don't Forget To Breathe
A couple good, solid breaths before approaching is a potential donor is always a good idea.  It slows the heart rate and calms the nerves.  A nice yoga technique is to focus on the tip of your nose as you inhale and exhale each breath.  Relax.  Breathe.

5. Have Fun With It
Above all, enjoy the process!  It's just fundraising.  It's not life or death.  And we'd be willing to bet, based on years of fundraising experience, that the more you enjoy your fundraising experience, the more success you'll see.