information request \| comments and feedback \| email this page

Quarter Report

A monthly list of 25 fun facts, helpful hints and other pearls of wisdom relating to philanthropy and the development profession

June 2005 Volume 1, Number 10

25 Essential Traits of a Successful Fundraiser

A person who is…

1. Mission driven

2. A good relationship builder

3. Persistent and results oriented

4. Willing to let others take the glory

5. Thick skinned with a good sense of humor

6. Creative and resourceful

7. Patient and empathetic

8. Straight forward and direct

9. A good listener

10. Knows what she doesn't know and can ask for help

11. Willing to work within the constraints of ambiguity

12. Articulate and well-informed about issues and current events of the organization and the world at large

13. A people person

14. Professional, yet warm and personable

15. Courteous with good manners

16. Knows when and how to ask

17. An optimist

18. Willing to take risks

19. Self-motivated with a strong sense of self

20. A good writer

21. Strategic and detail oriented

22. A multi-tasker with excellent organization skills

23. Team player

24. Passionate

25. Willing and able to say "thank you" in many different ways

Download a PDF of this report.