Blog

Bruce Berglund, CEO and Founder of DBD Group interviews Cory Scheer, Founder of TrustCentric about the role of trust in leadership. In this 35 minute conversation, they talk about strategies to measure, build and repair trust in teams and organizations. 

Learn more about TrustCentric and Cory Scheer, or check out his new book.

Learn more about Bruce Berglund, CEO and Founder of DBD Group or follow him on LinkedIn.

A Changing Landscape

You’ve probably heard the phrase “cash is king.” But is that still true?

As we all strive to foster stronger connections with diverse communities and supporters, we know that effective communication strategies play a key role. Whether you are raising awareness for a cause, mobilizing volunteers, or fundraising, the ability to communicate your message and tell your story clearly and in a compelling way is crucial.  

I used to have a New Year's resolutions ritual. Same goals, same treadmill drudgery, same disappointing results. Someone once said “insanity is doing the same thing, over and over, and expecting different results.”* What if I turned my consulting expertise and experience toward my personal goals? Could strategic planning finally be the solution to getting healthier? With my notepad and a new insight, I explored my health goals like I was facilitating a nonprofit’s strategic planning process.

Years ago, I was working with a very skilled major gifts officer. She had a donor, Elizabeth, who was in her 90s and who was very loyal to the organization. However, this staff member had tried contacting Elizabeth over and over through e-mail or by phone and leaving voicemails. As much as she tried diligently to get in touch with Elizabeth, she was unsuccessful. She started telling herself a variety of stories. Maybe something is wrong or she’s sick? Maybe I upset her with all my emails. Maybe she heard something negative about our organization? Maybe I offended her by asking her for money? Maybe she died?

As the new year rolls in, many nonprofits are embarking on a brand-new budget, with clean slates, fresh aspirations, and strategies poised for success. You may also find your organization with a new class of volunteers on your board of directors, fresh faces on committees and perhaps even new staff members on your team.

Living in the Midwest, it can get cold in the winter months. Real cold. One of the essential clothing items are gloves. Not just any glove, but a great glove. A glove should fit snugly but comfortably, without being too tight or too loose. I often go for gloves that are well insulated, yet stylish, and comfortable to wear. Ultimately, the best glove will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Be stubborn about the vision, but flexible with your plan.” – John C. Maxwell

While December is prime time for donor stewardship (pro tip: the #1 reason a donor will renew or upgrade their giving is that they were thanked AND told how their gift has impact) it is also a very fruitful time to invite support for your great cause. According to NPSource: 30% of annual giving occurs in December and 10% occurs in the last 3 days of the year.