Strategic Fund Development: Building Profitable Relationships That Last, Third Edition

The Road to Transformation

As for the process of transforming yourself, unfortunately there is no 10-step program to move from technician to accomplished fundraiser. This transformation is not as much about skill development as it is about attitude, expanded knowledge, and taking action. The transformation is neither orderly nor linear. Instead, you expand attitude, knowledge, and skill and take action simultaneously.

First is your own personal commitment. Your transformation depends on self-development. Honestly evaluate yourself. Commit the necessary time and effort to learn and grow.

Second is a willingness to expand your knowledge, in effect making your organization more dependent on you. Do this through self-study, continuing education, and conversation with colleagues.

For example, make sure you know enough about your organization’s program and services so the program staff recognizes your value in this arena. Also, move beyond fund development and the nonprofit sector. Look elsewhere for your learning—and demand that your professional associations expand their continuing education beyond fund development and nonprofits. Learn lots about the theory and practice of management and organizational development.

Third is assertiveness4 —convincing your organization to let you into the whole system. Be persistent, because convincing takes lots of personal conversations and repeated small and large acts on your part. Be patient. Change takes time and there may be some confusion and ...