Quick tips for saying thanks

Last week was Thanksgiving, and as we emerge from our food comas, now’s a good time to think about what Thanksgiving is really all about (aside from stuffing): reminding us that we have a lot to be thankful for. That means great food, friends, family, and, in the world of nonprofit fundraising, donors! While we know it can be easy to get caught up in year-end appeals and plans for the new year, it’s also smart to take a step back and show supporters a little love by saying thanks.

We took a look at some advice we’ve compiled over the years about how and when to thank your donors. Below are some of the easiest things to keep in mind when looking for ways to show your supporters some love.

Give them the credit: Make your donor feel like a hero for supporting your organization. Don’t focus too much on yourself—instead, remind her of the incredible work made possible by her support.

Show some emotion: Your donor is more likely to return if she feels a sincere connection to your organization. Make sure your thank you’s showcase your organization’s voice and personality, so that your donor remembers why she is so inspired by what you do.

Talk about next steps: Let your donor know when she is going to hear from you again, and give her a few ways to interact with your organization other than donating. Keeping your supporters involved shows how much you value long-term relationships with them.

Send it shortly after a donation: The faster you send a thank you, the more sincere it’ll feel to the donor. After one or two days, your organization isn’t as fresh in her mind, so send a thank you note with next steps as soon as you can to keep them connected to your mission.

Let us know which donor thank you messages inspired you, or share your organization’s tips for donor appreciation!