Thanks so much to Chris Brogan for his post on Confidence and Conviction!

Confidence is generally described as a state of being certain that a chosen course of action is the best or most effective. Confidence can be a self-fulfilling prophecy as those without it may fail or not try because they lack it and those with it may succeed because they have it rather than because of an innate ability.*

Conviction is a strongly held belief that is arrived at after considering personal experiences and any external inputs that may have been encountered.*

As fundraisers we inspire, lead and empower staff, Board, volunteers and of course donors. We must show confidence in our organizations’:

• Mission
• Programs
• Staff
• Finances

Our conviction in the work of our nonprofits can be read as passion. Without either, we cannot be successful. We show our conviction and passion when we:

• Recruit and train volunteers
• Share our stories
• Cultivate donors
• Ask for the gift

On a scale of 1 to 10 where is your confidence and conviction in yourself, your organization and your work? If you are on the low end try:

• Finding a mentor
• Reviewing your successes and challenges
• Thinking objectively AND subjectively about your organization
• Talking to your colleagues
• Making a change that will work for you and your organization
• Taking a vacation – Get some perspective

Fundraisers are leaders. We need to share our confidence and conviction with others to be successful personally and professionally. Be the best fundraiser you can be….your work is important to you, your organization and community.