In the first article of this two-part series, we looked at the concept of choice overload and reviewed some of the pros and cons related to small auctions with few biddable items versus large auctions with many items. We learned that because silent auctions are inherently unique events, caution should be taken to avoid a… Read More »
At the top of every event planner’s mind is the prevention of unexpected emergencies during their big event. Nobody wants to be faced with having to make a last-minute decision that could affect your organization, the venue or, most importantly, your guests. Predicting when an emergency will happen may be out of our control, but… Read More »
Ask someone for advice on the number of packages needed to make a silent auction truly shine and you might receive a response like, “as many as you can get.” When planning a benefit, we generally don’t spend time worrying about procuring too much; if anything, we worry about not having enough. But dig a… Read More »
They say people form an impression in the first five seconds, and leave with an impression that, once set, is not easily changed. That’s exactly why the presentation and functioning at check-in and check-out is vitally important if you want to leave a positive and lasting impression on your event’s guests. The big question is;… Read More »
The time is always right to implement new ideas into your fundraising approach. Whether you find yourself at the end of a quarter or a fiscal year, consider each milestone a chance to create new habits that improve outcomes in your fundraising programs. Then, consider how you can apply these same principles in your personal… Read More »
Each year our Greater Giving team travels to numerous conferences, seminars and trade shows all over the country. In fact, last year we participated in or organized 43 different events! You can always check out where we’re going next, or where we’ve been on our Event Calendar. As a nonprofit professional or professional fundraiser, what… Read More »
If you haven’t used a leaderboard before, now is the time to try one out. We’ve talked on the blog before about how useful they are to driving fundraising in live auctions and appeals. But running a leaderboard (or a few leaderboards) at your event can do even more. Promote engagement with your silent auction… Read More »
People say there’s no better teacher than experience, but the lesson can’t fully be understood without first putting the story into context. Reports contain a wealth of valuable information but understanding the big picture is the job of a comprehensive after-event case study. The self-examination a case study provides helps identify the subtler trends, queues… Read More »
A busted pipe, inclement weather, or maybe a rerouted highway due to road construction; there is always the chance an unfortunate event may suddenly present itself with only moments to go before your big event’s kick-off. Unpredictable and frustrating surprises can set the tone of the evening even before your guests step onto the property…. Read More »
Are there generational differences in fundraising? And if so, what are there different ways to reach out to each generation? Discussing the opportunities to engage with younger generations, the older generation, and the generation in the middle of it all in a way that makes sense to them. This session was originally presented by Darron Meares… Read More »