Customer Reviews

Ask Without Fear!: A Simple Guide to Connecting Donors With What Matters to Them Most

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3 star:		(1)
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1 star:		(1)

 

 

This book by Marc A. Pitman should be read by everyone who is involved in any way with fundraising. It provides a step by step method to ask for funds that is not only effective, but also removes much of the fear that is attributed to fundraising. I enjoyed Marc's perspective and personal stories to make his points. I also learned important techniques from it. Especially in the area of potential donor research. It is easy to read and implement. "Ask Without Fear" is on my must read list.

I've been reading and recommending Marc Pitman' s "Ask Without Fear" blog to fellow fundraisers and clients for years, and now I'm doing the same for his new book. It's an excellent, pithy, common sense guide to asking for money. I like how Marc breaks it down to a series of practical steps that anyone can understand and implement. And how he includes practical examples of strategy and language. Most of all, I like his writing style -- he models the kind of enthusiasm that I think is at the heart of effective fundraising. He makes it seem not only doable, but fun!
- Mitch Teplitsky, fundraising filmmaker and consultant (http://www.soyandina.com)

This book boils down the keys to inspiring donors to give generously to your cause. Marc's conversational style and real world success stories make the book fun and easy to read. You can't help but be inspired - and when fundraisers are inspired they succeed! Whether you are are new to fundraising or an old pro the concepts here are something we all need to keep in mind. This book is a must read for anyone seeking to raise money, and in today's tough economy these core principlas are more important than ever!

I was surprised that Marc Pitman published a paperback book when I know him as being savvy about web and social networking presences. And I'm glad he published on paper rather than digitally--I find "real" books to be more readily accessible.

Marc has used the acronym R.E.A.L. as the framework for his discussion of the process of asking fearlessly. The words--Research, Engage, Ask and Love--represent activities that are "real," meaning they are very deliberate, sometimes difficult or time-consuming and conducted with a specific goal in mind. As a means to engage you, the reader, Marc tells great stories and debunks seven myths about nonprofits and fundraising. He offers numerous tips, tools and anecdotes to get his points across.

Connecting donors to the heart of your organization's mission is the core concept that R.E.A.L. addresses. The book opens with a quote from Harold Seymour (who first codified fundraising practice) that ends "...treat (people) well, for you need them more than money." The book closes with Marc's words that "you can become incredibly effective...in asking for money and in growing long-term relationships with people that love your organization." Learning what matters to donors will help you overcome hesitancy about asking and even gain you a new friend. Valuing the person above the money will make your fundraising experiences simple and meaningful.

What a handy primer Marc Pitman has created for the novice fundraiser, and especially for members of Boards who have a fear of asking. ASK WITHOUT FEAR may be a quick read, but it is full of sage advice both general and specific. Pitman's REAL method (Research, Engage, Ask, Love) goes right to the heart of fundraising. It's refreshing to see a book on the art of the ask that includes a whole chapter on loving the funder, and ends with a note about qualifying donors by understanding their personalities. Buy a bunch for your Board and you won't regret it!
Morrie Warshawski
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Pitman's book is written in an easy to follow format, which can be implemented by an organization right away. The message is simple and straight forward. It is also very motivating and makes you want to pick up the phone right away to start the fundraising process.

Since I first met Marc in 1998, I have witnessed a constant champion for the entire fundraising community. Able to relate his experiences in practical ways to inspire others, he's a tremendous asset to the industry.

Bringing his web and consulting presence to your bookshelf, Marc has provided a great resource for beginning volunteers and seasoned professionals in "Ask Without Fear." I plan to purchase several copies for my office to loan out to others. (I won't be surprised when they aren't returned.)

From reminders of what makes you passionate about your organization to helpful ideas that draw others to your cause, Marc's succinct wisdom captured here is worthy for all - trustees, volunteers, staff.

first of all you have to realize that the book is tiny, so you are not getting too much info. Its also not too professional
On the other hand its pretty easy to read and not complicated.
The only reason I would reccomend it is because your choice on fundraising books is so limited.
The book focuses on developing genuine relationships with your supporters and making them want to join you in your work.

This is a quick read. I was able to read through this very informative 90 page book in a day. It has very helpful information for anyone raising funds. this is a book that I will refer to often.

A fair warning to Kindle users. Do NOT order the Kindle edition of this book. The formatting is terrible, there are errors everywhere, and it's almost painful to read. I'm rather amazed, as Mr. Pitman has actually written about how much he likes his Kindle. You'd think he'd check the quality of his own ebook.

For all I know, it's a wonderful, helpful read, but for now, I need to get a refund on the Kindle version, and order the paperback. I'll return and give a real rating after it arrives, and I can really read the thing.