Why “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers

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.

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