What mistakes to avoid if I am to impress a donor?

When you contact or meet a donor, first impressions count, and avoiding these mistakes will help you put your best foot forward.

Mistake #1: Not introducing yourself

Do not send an email to a donor without any introduction. Donors see many emails that only contain a funding request similar to this one:

“Can you fund our work with children in Uganda?”

Without so much as an introduction or explanation.

Explaining who you are and what the purpose of contacting the donor is will be much appreciated. Here is a better introduction:

“Dear Mr. James,

My name is Mary and I am the Director of “Children First” in Kampala, Uganda, a nationally recognized NGO. For the past 10 years, we have managed a successful program covering 100 children orphaned by HIV-AIDS.”

This introduction is still short and to the point while setting the proper tone for the rest of your communication.

Mistake #2: Spelling and grammar errors

When sending a letter or email to a donor, make sure you check and double-check your writing. And then have someone else check it again. While most donors will make some allowance for non-native speakers, glaring errors in spelling and grammar will make you look unprofessional.

What impression do you think this introduction will make on the donor?

“Dear M. James.,

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