Tip #4: Build a Fundraising Team

Kindly provided by Kerri Tilby-Price from Exult (helping non-profits grow).

Whether you’re a volunteer fundraiser or a paid employee, if you want to raise more funds, you need to build yourself a fundraising team. Unfortunately many fundraisers I’ve met are reluctant to let go of the reins, and while they claim there is no one available to help, the real issue is their unwillingness to delegate.

Delegation starts by recognising that the more hands you have on deck, the more you can achieve. And it’s amazing what you can achieve when you don’t care who takes the credit!

Begin by brainstorming all the tasks you need to get done in your fundraising role. Be as specific as possible; instead of saying ‘communication’, break that down into specific responsibilities such as Facebook, Newsletter, Press Releases, Donor Letters and so on. Once you have made a list (and it should be a big one), decide which of those tasks you would be willing to delegate to others.

Next, create job descriptions for each of the tasks or positions you have identified. The descriptions don’t have to be formal or stuffy, but they should include:

• Position Title - Using a specific title will give people a sense of identity, and helps to describe what each person will contribute to the team.
• Work Location - Does this job need to be done from your office or site? Is it a job that someone can do at home, or is there flexibility in where the task is carried out?
• Purpose of the Position - Every job should exist for a specific purpose; otherwise there is no point in creating it. How will completing this task affect the outcomes or mission of your organisation? It is important that your potential volunteer knows how the role fits into the big picture.
• Responsibilities and Duties - What exactly do you need someone to do?
• Qualifications and Experience - Are there any specific skills or qualities which are required to do this job well?
• Expected Commitment - How long will this job take and how often will it need to be done? Is it a regular commitment or a one off project? Are there specific hours that need to be worked or specific days?
• Training and Support - How will you support your volunteer in getting this job done?

Depending on the size of the role and the type of person you are trying to attract, these details can (and should) be presented in different ways and through various avenues. Talk with your existing volunteers about any relevant skills or experience they have and contact your local volunteer centre for potential candidates also. You can advertise your position free of charge on the Exult website.

Click here for the next great tip on raising more funds or here for all available tips.