It’s the season of connection—holiday cards, year-end thank-yous, and reflection. While you’re cultivating and stewarding relationships with donors, don’t forget the professional assets in your own network. Build these relationships intentionally.
The colleagues, mentors, and friends who’ve shaped your career are professional allies who can sustain your growth, open doors and spark new ideas. Here are eight ways to strengthen those links and leverage them for lasting success:
- Make your list. Write down 20 people who share your professional values. These are your connectors—colleagues, board members, volunteers, past coworkers, mentors, and peers.
- Reach out with purpose. Send a short, personal note before the holidays—thank them by giving a specific example or a favor they did for you. Share a meaningful update or simply wish them well. Your authenticity can build social capital in the relationship.
- Schedule touchpoints. Block time on your calendar each month to reach out to at least four people from your list. Staying in touch is a discipline. It is also charitable to put effort into people you care about.
- Be generous. Listen and learn about what they’re working on. Share an article or offer an introduction. Giving value keeps relationships reciprocal and genuine.
- Stay visible. Engage on LinkedIn or professional forums. Comment thoughtfully, share successes, and amplify others’ achievements. This visibility can keep you top of mind when opportunities arise.
- Reconnect in person. Coffee or lunch meetings take time. But even one get-together a month creates a space for good conversation, connection, and sparks new ideas. Make it about sharing and learning, not just networking.
- Ask for help. When you see someone in your network who could help you with an introduction, or advice, ask clearly and specifically for what you need. Do your homework before you ask and make sure you value the person’s time.
- Reflect and refresh. At year end, note who energized you and determine who you want to stay in touch with and perhaps some who you want to get in touch with next year. Reach out now to set appointments to connect with two or three in January 2026.
And finally…
Celebrate your connections! The most successful development professionals know that relationship-building is essential for fundraising— and it’s indispensable for a fulfilling career.
Stay tuned for a forthcoming post about how you can be a mentor for others.
For a timely refresher before the year end, check out my earlier post here covering seven best practices for fundraisers.
