Spring Break is a peak time for travel—individuals and families all enjoy the chance to exchange their everyday lives for a week of fun in the sun—but as most travelers know, a vacation won’t live up to its full potential if you aren’t well prepared. It’s a good idea to take the time to research things like climate, weather, accommodations, and tourist sights in advance of your departure. When you take the time to plan thoroughly before leaving for Spring Break, you increase your chances of having a fun, relaxing, and problem-free vacation.

This spring, remember that going on a donor visit is also an important event for which it is essential to prepare. For example, reflecting on a potential donor’s personality profile will enable you to determine how to best interact and communicate during the visit. Researching their current philanthropy will enable you to be knowledgeable about what they are currently supporting. Identifying the donor’s current phase on the Donor Commitment Continuum will help you determine which questions you can help them get “yes” answers to in order for them to deepen their commitment to your organization or project.

Of course, the main consideration is the objective of your donor visit. What is it that you want to accomplish? Understanding the importance of having meeting objectives, and the process and strategy for achieving those objectives, is a key part of Advancement Resources’ curriculum.

Adequate preparation is critical to managing an effective donor visit. It is also important because donors expect it. Doing your research beforehand demonstrates your respect for the donor and the donor’s time.

Ask & Act

• • What do you know about a current donor that will help you prepare for an effective meeting with him or her?
  • What questions do you have about this donor that must be answered in order for you to prepare for an effective meeting?
  • Can you think of a time when a donor meeting went particularly well because of your preparation?
  • Can you think of a time when a donor meeting would have been improved by better preparation?

Bobby Unser, one of the top racecar drivers in history, once said, “Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.” Are you prepared for success in your next opportunity?

Now, go out and make magic happen!