The phone is the fundraisers greatest relationship building opportunity!There, I said it.I mean using the phone the way YOU would, if you called your donor. Had several conversations, built a relationship and discovered what they're passionate about. Those insights are the key to unlocking a massive increase in long-term value, and of course, donor goodwill. Simple, right?So why is this generally the opposite of the way the phone is used in the market. As competition has increased, it's natural to push a little harder. But "squeezing" isn't a strategy. And donors are checking out and responding with legislation (GDPR etc) to protect themselves.Funny thing, engaging works better than squeezing anyway! It generates a higher response, a better ROI and LTV, and certainly leaves your donor feeling better about you than before you called. Engagement is the ONLY doorway to long-term value.Engaged annual fund donors will become monthly sustainers. They'll move beyond that $35 test gift and make a mid-level gift because you are able to give them an outlet for their passion. And most importantly, the loyal annual fund donor will put you in her will, because she wants her legacy to be part of your movement. Can squeezing do that?Donors give to meet their needs, not ours. Engaging simply taps into that. ​​I've spent the past 25 yrs turning Engagement into Recurring Revenue:​ ​• Inspiring 25-50% of donors to become Monthly Sustainers (100% CC/EFT)​ ​• Maximizing the engagement / LTV of mid-donors​ ​• Generating Planned Giving pipelines from annual & mid-​level ​donorsThis is why I believe talking with your donors​ (thanking, engaging, listening and inspiring them​), is the greatest relationship building opportunity available to fundraisers today.Make sense? Love to hear what you think.CheersGeoff