Your supporters don't want to hear from *you*

Don't get me wrong - keeping in touch with your supporters regularly is a critical part of any cultivation strategy. What I'm trying to say is that you probably talk about yourself too much. Supporters don't want to hear about what programs you've put in place or how many people you've served or what events you've put on or even what your organization needs right now.

They want to hear about the lives you've changed thanks to their support.

So today, go talk to one of your constituents* - and take a video camera if you have one. Ask them how they found out about your organization, what brought them to you, how their life has changed since coming through your doors.

*If you're saying to yourself, I can't do this because I work for an animal rights group/environmental organization/other organization that doesn't have someone to talk to, don't think you can't do this. You just have to be a little more creative. Put yourself in their metaphorical shoes and answer the same questions from their point of view. Tell the story of the wildlife in the habitat you preserved or the story of the dog that has a roof over his head instead of being chained up exposed to the elements.