You’re Invited (Part 1)

It feels special to be invited to something. On the air we talk about the headline, the intro, or the hook—that opening line that's individually relatable yet broad enough to be inclusive to capture the attention of your listener so that they lean-in to what you have to say. It's an invitation to listen that makes the listener feel seen and known.

People love to be seen and noticed.

You've probably experienced this before. That friend or family member invited you to their open house, shower, or wedding and there's no way you could possibly go. But you're still excited that they thought to invite you. I mean, they braved the Post Office and spent almost a dollar on that stamp! Or so it feels these days.

If you want your supporters to feel connected to your ministry, if you want them grow deeper in their relationship with you, you must meet them, shake their hand, look them in the eyes and say, "Thank you." The only way that happens is through an invitation.

But when they say NO... It’s easy to feel disappointed. You're trying to build a relationship; you're trying to serve and thank them, and it feels like they don't want to meet you. (I’ve found that most of the time the “no” is really “not now.” Persistence will pay off!)

Good News! There's power in sending the invitation.

Think about how you feel when you're included—when you get that personal touch. It feels good. Don't miss the opportunity to invite your donors frequently to opportunities, even if you're pretty sure they can't make it.

Whether it's a studio tour, an exclusive experience, attending a live or virtual meet & greet with an artist, just a "Can I swing by your office and drop off a t-shirt", there are countless opportunities to extend an invitation. Keep inviting, and hopefully you'll get a yes at some point. In the meantime, just the invitation is laying groundwork for communication and starting to build that relationship.

Invitations are donor glue.

“You’re Invited (Part2)” will have specific tips and strategies coming out 11/23.