Article: Resolving Conflict (board or staff)

Over the years, I've heard countless nonprofit leaders say some version of the same thing: "Our board has a governance problem." Sometimes they're right. A board may have outdated bylaws, weak committ...

2 Syys 24min

Why "Any Questions?" Is Killing Your Board Discussions   I've facilitated hundreds of board retreats over the past 20 years, and I've noticed something fascinating. The moment a board chair or CEO f...

2 Syys 6min

Many nonprofits believe their mission alone should inspire support. Unfortunately, donors are not mind readers.   They cannot automatically feel your impact, understand your programs, appreciate you...

2 Syys 17min

I've seen some beautiful strategic plans over the years. Thick paper. Gorgeous photography. Inspirational quotes. Color-coded priorities. One organization even handed me a plan that looked expensive e...

2 Syys 11min

Many fundraisers think successful donor meetings are primarily about charisma.   Wrong.       Charisma helps. Confidence helps. Storytelling helps. But more than anything else, successful fundra...

2 Syys 14min

Elephants Have Excellent Appetites Boards feed elephants in all kinds of ways. They postpone difficult conversations. They soften uncomfortable language. They create committees. They commission anot...

2 Syys 10min

For many nonprofit leaders and fundraisers, making the initial donor call feels about as comfortable as parallel parking a boat. Even highly confident professionals suddenly become nervous, overly for...

2 Syys 11min

Board members say it all the time. "We're just not ready to make that decision." It sounds thoughtful. Responsible. Even wise. After all, no one wants to rush an important decision. But after facili...

2 Syys 7min