‘‘You do have power here, and I think often fundraisers feel, ‘I don’t have any power,’ and it’s just not true. You have to grab at it, you have to pull it, you have to own it, you have to make it happen.’’
Many of the most difficult challenges for fundraisers involve influencing your colleagues. Whether it’s persuading someone in another team to support your idea or getting your proposal signed off by your Chief Exec, it can feel like an uphill struggle.
For practical ideas and plenty of encouragement, I was excited to talk to the always-inspiring Paul McKenzie. Paul is a very experienced fundraising leader, and he is convinced that we have far more power to positively influence people within our charity than we might think. Paul and Rob share examples and offer three practical things anyone can do to better connect, build strong cross-team relationships and make change happen.
Thank you for supporting our show, for example, by sharing it with colleagues or on social media. We are both on LinkedIn and on X / Twitter Rob is @woods_rob and Paul is @scottallpaul.
Episode overview
Paul McKenzie’s Background (00:02:09)
In this episode, Rob introduces Paul McKenzie, a very experienced fundraiser and leader. Paul shares insights into his consultancy, Giant Steps, which focuses on strategic planning and mentoring within the charity sector.
Challenges in Fundraising Leadership (00:03:21)
Paul and Rob discuss the common challenges fundraisers face when seeking approval from senior leadership. Paul highlights the importance of reframing the perception of influence, emphasising its positive impact on fundraising success. It’s not about how confident you feel, it’s about the difference you are determined to make.
Unlocking Potential in Organizations (00:05:31)
Paul emphasises the critical role of recognizing and unleashing the potential of fundraisers within charities. He discusses seeing your opportunity to make a difference regardless of ‘self-esteem’, is essential for effective influence and organisational growth.
Being Authentic in Influence (00:07:48)
Paul advises fundraisers to embrace authenticity in their approach to influencing. He shares a personal success story where making use of his natural strengths enabled him to influence a CEO effectively.
Reflecting on Past Successes (00:11:50)
Paul encourages listeners to reflect on past successes to identify their strengths in influencing. Rob shares a story that demonstrates how vulnerability can be a powerful tool in enhancing personal influence.
Courage to Speak Up (00:13:43)
Paul discusses the importance of having the courage to share ideas in meetings to enhance influence. Rob highlights the value of team engagement and the positive impact of collaborative idea-sharing in fundraising.
Chessboard Analogy for Influence (00:17:46)
Paul introduces the chessboard analogy as a strategic tool for influencing key stakeholders. He shares a personal experience of navigating complex relationships to secure a crucial partnership for his organisation.
The Importance of Influencing (00:19:46)
Rob and Paul discuss the vital role of influencing in achieving successful fundraising outcomes. Paul emphasises that fundraisers must take responsibility for their influencing efforts to drive results.
Chess Analogy for Influence (00:22:14)
Rob underscores the chess analogy as a method for strategic thinking in influencing others, enhancing the effectiveness of fundraising strategies.
Building Relationships Constantly (00:25:11)
Paul stresses that building relationships should be an ongoing effort, not just when needed. He explains the importance of active listening as a key component of the influencing process and better collaboration within teams.
Navigating Workplace Dynamics (00:32:15)
Paul discusses strategies for managing workplace relationships and finding common ground to achieve organisational goals, emphasising the importance of effective communication and influence.
Further Resources
Fundraising Bright Spots – Episode 23 Three Leadership Essentials with Paul McKenzie
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