Stakeholders vs. Committee members on your Gala Committee

We all know that a strong effective committee is essential to a Fundraising events success.  But what is your committee made up of?  Do you have committee members on your Gala committee or Stakeholders?   Why is this distinction important? 

First, what is a “Stakeholder”?  Stakeholders are anyone who has an interest in the project where a committee member is more likely someone who has been assigned to the project.  Project stakeholders are individuals and organizations that are actively involved in the project, or whose interests may be affected as a result of project execution or project completion. Ideally, they exert influence over the project’s objectives and outcomes rather than merely accept assignments. Does this sound like the type of people you would like to have on your committee?  

]In his excellent book “ Let’s have Lunch Together”  by Marshall Howard the author tells a story of the protagonist “Oscar”  who learns the importance of building relationships as he tries to raise the needed funds for his organization to take it to the next level. Although Howards book is not specifically about Charity Fundraising Galas the recruiting techniques to find “Stakeholders” for your committee are valid.

Let’s go over them briefly:

Identify Stakeholder Prospects- Building a profile of the right person for the position ( see an earlier post) is essential. Then search your database for prospects that fit the profile, organize and evaluate.  One that’s done prioritize them in groups of 12.

Recruit Stakeholder Prospects- Secure the introduction through a trusted board member or community leader make contact and then meet one on one. Make sure you connect personally at this meeting.

Identify Wins-Get to know the Stakeholder. The book talks about the “Stakeholder Mosaic” and they are also covered in the MH&A Workshops and seminars. http://www.marshallhoward.com/  and execute the high-impact touches.

Deliver Wins- Now you uncover the common interests and goals. This is Win-Win for you and the prospect.

Now that you have them, turn those relationships into productive outcomes.

Build Mutual Goals-Explore the circles of influence as you evaluate the resources and relationships of each of you. Now is also the time to agree on three mutual agreements.

Finally, Coach the Stakeholders- List action steps and support materials, Examine resources, and skills, and use flexible coaching styles to obtain the best results.

I will leave you with three relationship building Secrets from the book as you are on the lookout for new manpower to help you grow your committee:

1.       Be More Curious

2.       Put the other person first, your needs second

3.       Uncover common interests, values and goals.

If this interests you and you’d like to learn more give us a call at 512-748-1849 or order the book yourself at http://www.marshallhoward.com/training.php.  You can also schedule a seminar with Marshall Howard at MH&A and tell them you heard about them on the SR Custom Events & Auction Website!!