3 Things Your Board Should Hear Before New Year’s Eve.

I saw a sticker once, that said,

“CAUTION: Objects on calendar are closer than they appear!”

Here we are, three weeks left in this calendar year, and we’re all busy with whatever holiday festivities we are attending or in charge of.

No one’s really focusing on the first quarter of 2016.  Yet.  But as the sticker said, 2016 is closer than you think!

That’s why it’s important to tell your board of directors the three things they need to hear before the end of the year.

Thank you. You’ve been a big help doing XYZ this year! I appreciate the time and effort you’ve put into making it a success.

 Have a great holiday! And, most importantly, 

 I’m looking forward to next year, when I get to work with you on building ABC in 2016!

When you take the time to send this individualized, personal message – in person, in a note, by phone, or even by email – three things happen.

First of all, you feel great. You’ve turned your attention away from your own busy-ness, and put it on the act of appreciating others.

Second, you’ve given each board member a very special gift. More than candy, a card, or even a bottle of their favorite beverage, you’ve told each board member that he or she is valued.  Valued not for their dollars, but for their efforts and passion for your cause.

Finally, you’ve begun the work of making 2016 a success. You’re telling them that you need them. You’re looking forward to continuing your work together. It says, “by working together, WE will make ‘ABC’ successful. “

It’s a grand way to start the next year!

 Have a wonderful holiday. Thank you for reading and sharing these posts each month.  And have a Happy New Year!

This post was inspired by this video from Marc Pitman, The Fundraising Coach. Thanks, Marc, for describing each aspect of raising funds with such clarity, understanding and wit.