Making the Follow-up Call
Tips:
- Call your low hanging fruit first — your best friend, mom, sister or brother — the person you are most comfortable practicing with. Only after those calls do you move to the harder asks.
- Keep the conversation light and simple, and listen for their questions.
- Make a direct ask for money if appropriate.
- If people ask how much to give, refer to your own giving. “Shawn and I have been monthly donors for several years and we give $X a month. Would you consider joining us there?” OR “When I first began to donate to RESULTS I gave $X. Does that sound about right?”
Sample Follow-up Call:
Me: Hey Mom, how are you?
Mom: Oh, hi honey. It’s good to hear from you.
Me: Hey, I wanted to call and find out if you received the fundraising letter I sent to you about RESULTS. I sent it out a couple of weeks ago.
Mom: I did get that. You are doing such good work.
Me: I was wondering if you had any questions about the letter that I could answer.
Mom: No, I don’t think I do. I’m just not sure if I can do much right now.
Me: That’s ok, Mom. I wouldn’t want you to give at a level that is uncomfortable for you. I just want you to know that any donation is so helpful to us and will really make a difference. If you decide to make a gift, fill out the envelope I sent and mail it back to me. And please call me if you have any questions. I would love to talk with you about it anytime.
Mom: OK, I’ll see what I can do.
Me: Thanks Mom!