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There's No 'I' In Team—at least not these

Your fundraising team is vital to your success. This group may be referred to as the Annual Fund Team, Advancement Council, or Parent Chairs. Participation in this group should be an excellent way to identify future trustee candidates. Be wise and intentional about choosing the people for your team, considering the strengths and characteristics that will contribute the most. The I's you DON'T want in the team include:

• Insecure: You need people who have the security and confidence to ask for money. Like public speaking, many people have a strong aversion to making an investment proposal and closing on the ask.  Your fundraising team is not a forum for group therapy--this is a group that comes together for a short-term purpose to fund the vision.
• Independent: Excessively independent people are not good for the fundraising team--nor for the board.  That's why I strongly discourage schools from electing doctors, lawyers, and dentists to the trustee board. Some exceptions exist, but the professional training for these careers is unusually self-centered and independent. People in these professions typically don't play well with others, preferring to do things their own way. They also tend to give far below their capacity to do so. You want people on your team who are loyal to the school and it's leadership.
• Inhospitable: The people on your team need to have the talent and skills to make others feel comfortable. For some, momma never taught them how to be a good host and they shouldn't be on your fundraising team. You want relationship builders who make people feel welcome.