Key Takeaways: Fundraising begins with energy. Donors respond more to your emotional presence than your pitch, confidence, and authenticity attract, while desperation repels. Influence through presence, not perfection. Being grounded and emotionally attuned makes you more influential than having the "perfect" ask or script. Manage your energy intentionally. Simple practices like choosing a focus word, visualizing success, or resetting with breath and music can elevate your presence in donor conversations. Authentic connections build long-term results. Fundraising rooted in real connection leads to lasting relationships, lower stress, and more meaningful donor engagement. “Influence is not about being perfect. It's about being present.” “Even 90 seconds of intentional grounding can shift your state and realign your energy before you connect with anyone, especially a donor.” “The more that I let go, the more that I give them the opportunity to make their own choice, the more likely they are to choose what I want.” - Maryanne Dersch Ask for and receive all you want, need, and deserve without feeling rejected, ineffective, or pushy. Learn to manage your mindset, lead yourself and others more effectively, and have the meaningful conversations that drive your most important work. Get your free starter kit today at www.theinfluentialnonprofit.com Connect with Maryanne about her coaching programs: https://www.courageouscommunication.com/connect Book Maryanne to speak at your conference: https://www.courageouscommunication.com/nonprofit-keynote-speaker
Key Takeaways:
“Influence is not about being perfect. It's about being present.”
“Even 90 seconds of intentional grounding can shift your state and realign your energy before you connect with anyone, especially a donor.”
“The more that I let go, the more that I give them the opportunity to make their own choice, the more likely they are to choose what I want.”
- Maryanne Dersch