DiscoverThe Intentional Fundraiser PodcastWhy “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers
Why “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers

Why “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers

Update: 2025-09-16
Share

Description

This one has been simmering inside me for months.

It’s about the language we use in the nonprofit sector—and why we need to be more mindful of it.

Specifically, I’m making a plea to eliminate phrases like “tips and tricks” when we talk about engaging donors.

Because giving is not a “trick.” Donors are not targets. And we are not magicians trying to perform sleight of hand to win gifts.

When we say things like “tips and tricks” or “low-hanging fruit” in fundraising, we might think we’re being harmless, maybe even clever.

But in reality, we’re reinforcing a belief system that positions fundraising as transactional, manipulative, or worse, dishonest.

That’s why in this episode, I take us on a journey into the power of language in fundraising, how it shapes donor relationships, and how it shapes us.

Listen in and let’s transform our language (and our sector!) together.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. 

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies 

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Comments 
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

Why “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers

Why “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers