Five Ways to Build Out Your Major Donor Portfolio

Many development offices suffer from high turnover rates.Besides offering better compensation, managers can provide nonmonetary incentives to help retain gift officers, suggests Tammy Zonker, founder and president of Fundraising Transformed (Detroit, MI).Providing flex time and hybrid or remote work options can help balance long, demanding days that often start with early donor breakfasts and end with evening events.Just as important is building a culture of philanthropy across your organization so colleagues in other departments better understand the emotional and logistical demands of fundraising."Fundraisers are trained to be endlessly grateful to donors, board members and volunteers," says Zonker, "but too often, they receive little appreciation themselves."Simple gestures of acknowledgment from leaders and peers can go a long way in boosting morale, reducing burnout and reinforcing a sense of purpose and belonging.