Storytelling: The Secret Sauce of Fundraising Success

Storytelling: The Secret Sauce of Fundraising Success
By Lynn Malzone Ierardi

Stories have been written, printed, blogged, shared, discussed, debated, and passed down through the generations – people have an incredible appetite for stories. Stories trigger a physical response in the same way a good meal satisfies.

Great stories engage donors and raise more money. Studies confirm good storytelling is one of the most powerful ways to engage stakeholders and influence behavior. Stories raise awareness, change behavior, and trigger generosity. Facts and logic are not as persuasive as a good story. Stories penetrate people’s natural defense systems and become more compelling and memorable.

NPOs have amazing stories to share — stories of perseverance, fortitude, and generosity. However, storytelling requires planning and then sharing the with the right people, in the right setting, and at the right time. Storytelling: The Secret Sauce of Fundraising Success provides the tips for one to  become a great NPO storyteller.