Part of our work and counsel with our clients is to conduct feasibility studies. We have the opportunity to visit with 25-30 top community leaders and philanthropists, asking them about the image of the non-profit, the proposed plans and who might help raise money and/or be donors of the vision.
Recently I was conducting an interview with a wonderful prospect who was both wealthy and wise. We outlined our plans and then asked him to comment regarding our ability to get the campaign completed successfully. He shared the pieces of the project that were most interesting to him and how he might support the project.
As we were walking out, I asked if, after all of these years, he had any advice to leaders who were just learning the ropes of capital fundraising. He smiled and said “I always bet on the jockey.” He went onto explain that he invests in leaders. He seeks out non-profit leaders who can lead and invests in those organizations. He assesses the volunteers who are involved and if they are leaders he invests in them. He always bets on the jockey.
I couldn’t agree more. For years I’ve said leadership is everything! What should you look for in a jockey?
When assessing staff and volunteers you are recruiting to your organization or campaign — remember wise investors bet on the jockey!