The Art of the Apology

Despite our best efforts, we all make mistakes. Of course, we want to make as few as possible, but there will be misunderstandings in fundraising. Especially when it comes to donor relationships, it is important to make things right – quickly and carefully. While there is no formula for the perfect apology, the following tips should help smooth the way and build deeper, long-lasting relationships.

Say, “I’m sorry,” promptly and sincerely

“I’m sorry” won’t solve everything, but it opens the door for understanding and resolution. As soon as you realize there may be a problem, don’t hesitate to make the first move. Pick up the phone, make the call and apologize sincerely. Sincerity comes naturally when you genuinely care about your donors and the organization’s mission.

Listen with a goal to understand

Begin with an open mind to find out what went wrong. Very often, problems are routed in miscommunication. Allow donors to express themselves fully. The more they talk, the better. Don’t try to curtail the conversation by explaining your side of the situation too quickly. The more you hear, the better able you will be to answer questions, give a proper response and finish well. Not only that, but you may hear insights to help adjust and improve the nonprofit’s systems of communication.

Learn the lessons and let it go

Mistakes are part of a continual improvement process. If we do not learn, we are destined for failure. If appropriate, let the donor know it will not happen again, because you plan to make adjustments and improvements.

After you have apologized, listened and learned, let the donor know you understand the mistake cannot be undone, but ask if there is something that can be done to make things right. Research tells us that customer satisfaction improves when mistakes are acknowledged, corrected and communicated appropriately. We never want to make mistakes, but when they happen, we can use these opportunities to build trust and deepen our donor relationships.

Karin Cox, Co-Founder and President, kcox@kineticfundraising.com

To learn whAt Kinetic can do for your organization, contact us at
info@kineticfundraising.com

Kinetic’s Growing Philanthropy Tour

Contact info@kineticfundraising.com to schedule a Kinetic consultant
to speak at your conference or organization

Washington, D.C.
July 11, 2019
2019 Bridge Conference
AFP of Washington DC Metro Area Chapter
Prepared for Success: Demystifying the Major Gift Campaign
Karin Cox

Richmond, Va.
July 24-25, 2019
2019 VFRI Conference
Fundraising is Everybody’s Job: Creating a Culture of Philanthropy
Karin Cox

Charlotte, N.C.
August 5, 2019
AFP North Carolina Conference
Everyone Plays, Everyone Wins – Creating a Culture of Philanthropy
From Reliable to Remarkable: Growing Annual Gifts to Regular Gifts
Karin Cox
Janell Johnson

Los Angeles, Calif.
October 10-12, 2019
2019 Economic Science Association
North American Meetings
John List

Paris
November 14-15, 2019
4th INSEAD
Randomized Controlled Trials
John List

Past Stops on the Tour

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