Make the Most of Meetings with Major Donors

As the assets of America's wealthiest have been growing, big gifts are flowing faster than ever to nonprofits.

But forging ties with people who make large gifts takes time, savvy, and skill. Each donor has specific priorities and motivations for giving, and there is no one-size-fits-all playbook for meetings with big donors.

How can you make the most of conversations with major donors and build stronger connections for your nonprofit?

Join the Chronicle of Philanthropy for a one-hour session to get advice from two veteran major-gift fundraisers: Laura Frye of the Boston Ballet and Mark Stuart, the top fundraiser at the San Diego Zoo.

Together, they'll share proven tactics for using time wisely before, during, and after a meeting with wealthy donors. You'll get tips on asking good questions, avoiding common pitfalls, and keeping a donor's interest alive for the long term. Plus, you'll gain insights into how personality drives giving and how to pick up on subtle cues that can show you the steps that most likely will lead to a big donation.

What Will You Learn?

• Steps to take, and information to research, before meeting with a philanthropist
• Key ways to understand a donor's motivations for giving
• How to keep a donor's interest alive

Who Should Attend?

• Major-Gift Officers
• Chief Development Officers and Development Directors
• Executive Directors

What Resources Will You Receive?