When to Speak and When to Listen: Lessons from a Development Professional

Fundraising is more than just asking for money or attending an event. Successful fundraising is relationship-driven, built on trust, and includes a delicate balance of communication – listening and speaking. This is true of all of our most important relationships. Donors to nonprofits want to do good and support the organizations for which they care about the most. They want to feel confident that their philanthropic goals can be accomplished and move the organization forward. Knowing when to speak and when to listen is a critical skill and a key to success. This program will highlight the importance of this knowledge, especially as it relates to working with donors. While this program focuses on experiences in the development field, this is a skill that can enhance any relationship.

Melissa Stiles, CFRE, is the director of development for the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation with 25 years of experience in the development field. During her career, Melissa has worked with donors serving arts/culture, healthcare, and children-focused organizations. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication from UA Little Rock. The best part of fundraising, according to Melissa, is working with donors to realize their philanthropic goals.

Register for the event here.