A leader with a comprehensive approach to fundraising understands and appreciates left-brain givers. By “left-brained” I mean analytical, systematic, and results oriented. These are the men and women with a business approach to ministry and who write the larger checks. Their stewardship of God’s resources requires wise management of money from ministries. Left-brain givers expect more and give more.
- Half of the population resembles the profile of left-brain givers, and they control a majority of the world’s assets and fill most of the leadership positions. Learn their language of ROI’s, outcomes, P&L’s, projected cash flow, deliverables, and milestones. As you get to know their world, you will be more comfortable and confident in serving them.
- If we fail to embrace and celebrate this type of donor, we risk missing opportunities for larger gifts and accountability for ministry excellence. Indeed, this disciplined approach to giving is growing in its influence. For example in the early days of Ministry Ventures, we were blessed with 20 givers who gave $20K a year. I learned to communicate with clear, concise, and relevant information to these significant donors. We moved from emotional appeals to cerebral appeals.
- So who in your life can you learn from that has left-brain tendencies? Perhaps you ask your board members to introduce you to friends they have who fit this profile of professionalism. Right-brain people who wisely appreciate those who are left-brain will go a long way in fundraising success. You see more zeros on givers’ checks when your ministry appeals to both sides of God’s creation: the magnificent brain.
Our Ministry Ventures’ board has its own quirks and dysfunctions, but one thing we’re not is boring. We are a broadly gifted group of highly motivated, type-A leaders. None of us lacks an opinion or confidence. Fortunately we all are accountable to check our egos at the door and begin our board meetings in humble prayer and dependence on the Lord. All this being said, make sure you are not overly harmonious, or you will run off good, bored board members.
- Patrick Lencioni in his excellent book, Death By Meeting, describes how the most effective meetings resemble a good movie; they’re full of conflict. I think he is right, and applied in the ministry world we have to be more intentional and invite healthy debate. Perhaps you add, “Bang the Table” as a board agenda item, but place it strategically after your prayer time. Conflict keeps people awake.
- Board members who are not bored show up on time for board meetings, and they bring energy and enthusiasm with them. They feel valued when they are able to apply their experience and expertise to the strategic direction of the ministry. Invite their participation and you will retain their involvement.
- I dare you at your next board meeting to declare it, “A bored free zone board!”
- Additional resource: Nailing Down a Board by Charles Ryrie
I am just finishing One Bullet Away: The Making of a Marine Officer by Nathaniel Fick. It is written like a novel (even on my Kindle.) I was drawn into his military world of education, training, perseverance, communication, teamwork, loyalty, and leadership. He led well as a lieutenant because he was smart, teachable, well trained, and respected by the men in his platoon. Here’s an application I gleaned…
- Leaders who improve are nimble as they adapt with the changing circumstances. For example in the ministry world, how do you respond when donors reduce their giving? Do you complain to them, or do you compliment them?
- A good first step is to thank God and thank them for their gift to the ministry, and then dismiss disappointment. People need to know we love them for who they are, not for what they give. When givers begin to feel like ATMs, their passion for your ministry diminishes, and they become susceptible to donor fatigue.
- Second, sincerely ask how you can pray for them. Their need to adjust down their giving may be a direct result of a crisis in their family or finances. Be a ministry maker not a ministry breaker. Lost cash is a found opportunity to reach out.
- Third, ask your giver friends if they are aware of anyone who may have an interest in learning more about your ministry. Most people who are friends of your ministry are honored to introduce you to their network of colleagues.
- You may feel like you’re dodging financial bullets at times, but don’t panic. Stay true to your values of prayer, trust, appreciation, and generosity. Your leadership becomes real when you engage in real life challenges and opportunities.