Top tips & how tos

The focus in this section is on practical ‘how to’ lists. Here the world's leading fundraisers share the distilled wisdom of their experience in digestible bite-sized nuggets that you can use immediately.

How to show the right gratitude attitude to new e-mail subscribers

by Ephraim Gopin

The first e-mail you send to new subscribers is crucial, as it will inform whether or not they open any subsequent messages. In this handy guide, Ephraim Gopin explains how to ensure you start off on the front foot.

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Introducing Fulfilled Fundraisers, a new learning platform for fundraisers

by Joe Burnett

Now, more than ever, fundraisers want to connect with their peers and help each other. Thankfully there’s a space where you can learn from the best in the business, without even needing to leave your desk: Fulfilled Fundraisers.

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Top tips to help you get the most out of IWITOT

by Craig Linton

SOFII trustee and fundraising consultant Craig Linton shares eight ways to get the most out of your attendance at a fundraising event like I Wish I’d Thought of That (IWITOT). Don’t let the learning end when the session finishes. 

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The science of fundraising: Ask a behavioural scientist, part three

by Kiki Koutmeridou

Does naming your campaign improve acquisition? What should you call your monthly donor programme? The answer to these and other fundraising questions may be found in behavioural science.

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Charity Chat Podcast - How does SOFII inspire fundraisers worldwide?

by Samuel Davies

Joe Burnett, our contributing editor, talks with Samuel Davies of Charity Chat in this great podcast. They discuss the virtues of SOFII and give an insider’s look at what the site and the charity can offer you. 

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Integrity is not something you show others, it’s how you behave behind their back

by Ken Burnett

Ken Burnett, SOFII’s founder, looks at questions of integrity in fundraising and where it’s lacking, asking the question ‘Whatever has happened to plain ol’ knowing "right" from "wrong"?’

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The science of fundraising: Ask a behavioural scientist, part two

by Kiki Koutmeridou

From use of language to matching gifts via anthropomorphism of animals and end of fiscal year campaigns, behavioural scientist Dr. Kiki Koutmeridou answers key questions in fundraising from a scientific perspective.

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Fundraising in a time of crisis: five ways to think about the supporter experience now

by Richard Turner

Fundraiser Richard Turner shares how charities such as RNLI, Asthma UK, Freedom from Torture, and SolarAid are responding to the coronavirus crisis and reaching out to their supporters.

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Why do people give? The coronavirus special with Giles Pegram

by Mark Phillips

Mark Phillips of Bluefrog sits down with fundraising expert Giles Pegram to discuss the coronavirus crisis and how it affects charities in this edition of ‘Why do people give?’

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Bluefrog Fundraising’s free resources for creating a coronavirus appeal

by Mark Phillips

During uncertain times it’s refreshing to find that people are offering help to fundraisers and charities who may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. One such hero is Mark Phillips of UK agency Bluefrog Fundraising, who provides much-needed support, advice and useful templates in this excellent blog post.

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Right now, the supporter experience matters more than ever

by Joe Burnett

How are you going to maintain an excellent donor experience for your supporters in this time of crisis? Six expert fundraisers explain how their organisations are reacting to coronavirus, whilst still ensuring they are there for those who give to them.

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Why do people give? The podcast with Ken Burnett

by Mark Phillips

We bring you Mark Phillips’ conversation with SOFII founder and fundraising expert Ken Burnett, from the podcast Why do people give?

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