Or... to be more formal and professional, be transparent and honest. I prefer "Get Real" because it embodies what I'm talking about. The people I work with, the staff, volunteers, and supporters of organizations are all real people. I want to really get to know them and in turn, a lot of them want to really know me. Not because I'm all that interesting, but because genuine human relationships and connection are what really keep us involved and engaged in an organization and with each other.
While reflecting upon my work conversations today, we touched upon a wide range of topics: traveling in Mexico and India, liberation theology, ecstatic dancing and speaking in tongues, homebrewing (is it time for a frosty bevvie yet?). What does this have to do with fundraising, consulting, or anything work related? In those same conversations we talked about thank you letters, data management, organizational development strategies, donor prospects for a book translation project, and data needs for a big capital grant. Sure, catching up, relationship building, "shooting the shit" (omg I said it! on the internet! a blog!) takes time out of our already tight, crazed days--but it also leads to deeper connections, which lead to greater trust, increased productivity, and the creative space to envision together.
As I head out for a frosty bevvie, I raise my glass to everyone who is "real" -- I'm grateful to be working with you and sharing with you.
While reflecting upon my work conversations today, we touched upon a wide range of topics: traveling in Mexico and India, liberation theology, ecstatic dancing and speaking in tongues, homebrewing (is it time for a frosty bevvie yet?). What does this have to do with fundraising, consulting, or anything work related? In those same conversations we talked about thank you letters, data management, organizational development strategies, donor prospects for a book translation project, and data needs for a big capital grant. Sure, catching up, relationship building, "shooting the shit" (omg I said it! on the internet! a blog!) takes time out of our already tight, crazed days--but it also leads to deeper connections, which lead to greater trust, increased productivity, and the creative space to envision together.
As I head out for a frosty bevvie, I raise my glass to everyone who is "real" -- I'm grateful to be working with you and sharing with you.
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