LEADERSHIP TRANSITION
AILMENT
“Our CEO recently left our organization. I won’t go into details, but it was abrupt and pretty messy. Some confidential things got leaked to the media and donor confidence is shaken. We have a great interim CEO, but I’m not sure what steps to take to get fundraising back on track.”
SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE
- Formerly loyal donors are not responding to calls or emails
- Donations that have slowed or dropped
- Pledges that remain unfulfilled
POSSIBLE CAUSES
- Donors have lost trust in your organization.
- Donors are taking a “wait and see” perspective.
- Staff is demoralized and not confident in re-engaging donors.
- Your communications with donors have not been clear.
- The board has not taken a leading role.
THE CURE
- Speak with one voice. Present a coherent and unified message about what happened, the actions taken, and the path forward.
- Reaffirm your organization’s purpose. What is happening now, and what will be done in the near future? Has your purpose changed?/span>
- Focus on your mission. The CEO may have left, but the mission continues, and the mission is as important as ever.
- Encourage the board to become ambassadors and advocates. The voice of the board will go a long way to help rebuild trust in the donor community. This might include making calls or hosting small events.
- Share positive testimony from loyal donors or other “influentials” in your network. Let these personal stories speak to the ongoing value of your mission.
- Go on a listening tour. Learn what is really holding donors back, so you can better answer those concerns.
- Be transparent. You don’t have to overshare or reveal private details, but be upfront with donors about programs, financials, and plans to right the ship.
- Demonstrate that an adult is in charge. Even with an interim CEO, communicate frequently with donors. Consider higher-touch options like webinars.
- Avoid rehashing the problem. After your unified, clear, and honest communication, move on. Focus on your mission and your future. (This is important externally and internally.)
