The first objections to overcome are the internal ones! Very few people are comfortable asking for money until they have quite a bit of experience under their belt. The most common reasons we don’t ask people for money include:
- Not knowing how to ask
- Not feeling like we’ll have answers to specific questions they might ask
- Assuming they will probably say “no” anyway
- Thinking it will negatively impact the relationship
- Thinking it will create obligations to give to their cause in return
The first two excuses can be overcome with practice, preparation and honesty if you are caught off-guard. The last two excuses are things that might happen on occasion, but very infrequently. People are more likely to be offended by not being asked, and your only obligation is to use the money you’re given wisely and to benefit the cause for which it’s intended.
As for saying no, that is going to happen half the time, but a yes will NEVER happen if you don’t make the ask! Just like any other ask you make (come to a rally, attend a meeting, get on a bus to Albany), rejection is a natural part of organizing. Just play the numbers game, keep the faith, and trust that it will work out at least half the time. As you do it more and more, you’ll get increasingly comfortable making the ask, and will likely find that the yeses eventually outweigh the nos. Bottom line, to get to yes, just keep asking.
Now, let’s look at some of the most common responses you’ll get from others:
- “Yes, I’ll help.” ⇒ Thank them, and make arrangements for how they will pay.
- “I’d like to help, but that’s too much money.” ⇒ Ask them what amount they would feel more comfortable giving.
- “That’s a lot of money.” ⇒ Agree, and explain why you are asking for that amount.
- “I need to think about it.” ⇒ Ask if there’s more information that would help them make their decision, and make a plan to follow up at a specified time.
- “I need to discuss this with my spouse/partner/significant other.” ⇒ Ask if there’s anything the partner will want to know, and ask if you should meet with the two of them together. Make a plan to follow up at a specified time.
- “No, I can’t help you.” ⇒ Nod your head and wait to see if an explanation is offered. If none, discuss alternative ways they can help out the campaign.