Around with Randall

Stories create connections by sharing personal experiences and vulnerabilities, helping others see their own paths through self-discovery. They are more memorable and engaging than mere lessons, as they evoke emotions and foster empathy. Effective storytelling should include personal failures, be relevant, concise, and provide a clear summary to ensure impact. Ultimately, storytelling builds trust...

Today we dig into a controversial topic - special events in nonprofit fundraising. The inefficiency and resource drain these events cause, taking away focus from building individual relationships. Perhaps partnering internally and externally to reduce staff involvement in events and using data to advocate for more effective fundraising strategies is the key. Where is the appropriate balance betwee...

In this edition of Around with Randall, we focus on collaboration. From the moon landing to scientific discoveries, all rely on a collective effort rather than individual achievement. We will also address the benefits and challenges of collaboration, stressing the importance of clear roles, effective communication, and trust to overcome obstacles and achieve shared goals.

This week, we put nonprofit CEOs on a slide, power up the philanthropic microscope and examine the alarming trends of burnout and high turnover rates among our nonprofit leaders. We also talk about the importance of effective board engagement, community interaction, and strategic planning in bolstering CEO tenure and organizational stability.

In this episode of "Around with Randall," we discuss the challenges nonprofits face in maintaining donor relationships during the summer when donors are often away. We look at the importance of staying engaged through virtual events, personalized communications, and leveraging data to justify travel expenses for face-to-face interactions, with the ultimate goal of maintaining and deepening donor c...

Congratulations! You made it to July. Now, let’s look at how to maximize our efforts in the next six months, whether you follow a calendar or fiscal year. The key? Plan and focus on building strong relationships with your top prospects. Prioritize your efforts, set detailed plans, and establish good daily habits. Additionally, maintaining a balanced personal life is crucial for professional succes...

At long last, Giving USA released its philanthropic giving data for 2023. Today, we eagerly dive into the numbers and more importantly, what they mean for non-profits and those who work in support of their missions. Philanthropic giving in the United States reached approximately $557 billion- an increase in pure dollars, but how does that stack up when adjusted for inflation? Uncover what the numb...

In the latest episode of Around with Randall, we delve into the issue of when it's necessary for nonprofits to part ways with certain donors. The delicate balance between financial necessity and maintaining organizational integrity. Hallett provides actionable insights on identifying problematic donor relationships and implementing strategies to uphold the nonprofit's mission and values, ensuring...

Episode 200! Today, we reflect on the significance of celebrating small wins, emphasizing their role in fostering motivation, confidence, momentum, positivity, learning, and team spirit. We look at various ways to celebrate achievements, from sharing with others to setting new goals. Finally, we will examine the value of recognizing and cherishing each step in the journey toward success.

Today we discuss the issue of non-compete agreements in the nonprofit sector, their impact on employees. What is behind the rise in non-compete agreements? What are the positives and negatives of non-competes and why is important to understand the implications of non-competes and making informed decisions to safeguard your career.

Today’s episode looks at the relationship between prospect management teams and gift officers. Why are their head winds and how to effectively compare and challenge the status quo. How to remove the implied hierarchy between the two positions to bring success to the entire team and more, the organization’s mission.

The fifth and final section in the relationship development series will dive into stewardship. How do you track your stewardship efforts, what levels of engagement are appropriate and what are the tactics you can start using today?

The fourth in a five-part special series in relationship development, we look at soliciting and closing gifts. Be it annual giving or a major gift, plan gift, principal gift, any type of communication, individual relationships. These are the questions you need to be prepared to answer as you move through the process.

In the third edition of a special five-part series we look at questions surrounding the elements cultivation. Building the relationship. Study the six must-ask questions during the cultivation process. The value of your work is rooted in your relationships - asking the right questions gets you stronger relationships which leads to greater levels of philanthropy and greater impact in your community...

In today’s second edition of our special five-part series we look at questions about the qualification process. Specifically, to people, corporations and foundations. A clear understanding of your own qualification process is the cornerstone to finding the next donor and potential gift which ultimately puts you one step closer to achieving your mission – both personally and organizationally.

The first in a five-part series to examine relationship development in fundraising. To begin, we dive into pipeline development and examine how identifying prospects starts with asking questions both of oneself and of the prospective donor.

This week, we examine several challenges and solutions to getting marketing and fundraising teams on the same page – how can you work together to drive proper messaging, relationships and gifts for your organization?

Keeping your foundation legal - A simple yet critical reminder of the basic principles, policies, and procedures you should be reviewing on a regular basis to maintain and build trust with the community, leaders and donors.

What are the makings of a true leader? This week, we look to the Oracle himself for some hometown insight and wisdom.

Everyone, from time to time in one form or another, experiences self-doubt and questions their success and purpose in both personal and occupational roles. Where does self-confidence come from and how is it related to our jobs in philanthropy?

Before the copy writing, before selecting pictures, before the layout edits, the most important work starts.

Today, we have instant access to nearly everything. News, information, products, services – the list goes on. Conditioned to instant gratification, have we lost sight of recognizing the payoff of patience? What is the return on investment of time?

Are you missing opportunities by relying on passive emails and appeal letters? What meaningful steps can you take to individualize and personalize your appeals? Learn why gift officers with these practices receive larger gifts, more often from more donors.

If you could have a conversation with anyone you want, who would it be? See who Randall would invite first. His choice might surprise you.

Perhaps you're due for a raise, but your performance review isn't for quite some time. Or maybe your review is right around the corner and you want to make the case for a raise. Whatever the circumstance, this podcast will ensure you're prepared to have a conversation with your boss. Listen now.