What do successful fundraisers have in common? Louis and Mike share some traits they observed in their mentors over the years. Successful fundraisers: Obsess about being as clear, simple, straightforward and plain-spoken as possible. They know that’s a service to their team mates and their donors.  Obsess about what their community of donors and supporters cares about. Take full responsibility if people didn’t react to the message or approach, and then work better at understanding the audience/donors to frame the offer in a more relevant and meaningful way  Lead donors toward greater generosity by using emotional information and creating personal meaning  Cross “the knowledge gap” by meeting donors exactly where they’re at, using words and phrases and stories donors can easily and quickly understand  Make some assumptions about human nature and psychology, but are innately curious about what their donors specifically care about  Spend a lot of time hanging out in places where they can get insights about their donors (front desk, donor care department, making an effort to talk with donors at events, reading the reply coupons, etc.) What would you add to the list?  GET CONNECTED Follow Louis Diez on LinkedIn  Follow Mike Duerksen on LinkedIn  Join the Donor Participation Project here—a community of fundraisers who get together every month to co-create solutions that increase donor participation. Get access to the 5 Minute Fundraising Fix—a FREE mini course that will help you craft compelling fundraising messages that move donors to action and increase response.  ABOUT THE HOSTS Louis Diez advises nonprofits in annual fund development, digital fundraising, and engagement strategies. He's the founder and host of the Donor Participation Project and VP, Community at Almabase. Mike Duerksen is the founder and CEO of BuildGood, a fundraising agency that helps nonprofits raise more money from individual donors. He also hosts the Build Good Fundraising Podcast.