Customer Reviews

How to Write Fundraising Materials That Raise More Money: The Art, the Science, the Secrets

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(1)

 

 

For research purposes, I have more than 30,000 direct mail samples, countless annual reports, and hundreds of newsletters in my business library. And I'd say probably anywhere from 2 to 3% of them are really good (that means they raise a lot of money). They practice what Tom Ahern teaches you in his new book.

If you've ever had the opportunity to see Tom present - and he presents at many conferences around North America - then you'll know why you need this book. His way of thinking about donors, and what they want, will enable you to improve almost any donor-directed publication that you produce.

I strongly encourage anyone working for a nonprofit to buy this book - almost certainly it will improve the quality of the information you give to your donors, and the amount of money they give to you.

Two great things about Tom Ahern: 1) he writes in crisp, clear, jargon-free language, and 2) virtually every sentence contains advice or a tip I can actually use. In this straightforward but packed book, he taught me to always put myself in the donor's shoes when I'm writing, to never write anything that doesn't include an offer, to run like hell from "writing by committee", the emotional triggers that get people reaching for their wallets, and how to write great headlines and good copy. I'm not sure what else you can ask from a book that fits in your back pocket, reads deliciously the second and third time, and even apologizes for leaving out a chapter he'd call "Feeling Stupid". Feeling stupid is what you should feel if you don't order this book right after you finish this review.

You can find lots of stuff in print about writing fundraising materials -- but you won't find any book that's more squarely on point or more clearly and compellingly written. Tom Ahern is a master of writing for results. This superb new book is a must for anyone who writes to raise money.

I could not put Tom's book down and read it in a night. There are some many great tips and insights -- I will not write another thing without this book at my side!

Although I have listened to Tom make presentations, he goes so fast that you forget some of the "secrets" of fundraising he mentions. This book is full of those ideas and is a great way to remember what he said. However, anyone reading it will find it easy to read, very practical, and more than helpful. Now...to go do what he suggests!

The material in this book is as invaluable as the style in which it is written. I found this book incredibly motivating, informative, stimulating, and fun to read. Thanks Tom! I feel utterly refreshed and excited to write now, instead of dreading it.

Great book! It was easy to read through, but also easy to look up essential information later. Highly recommended.

I have always been inspired by Tom. Never have I read a better, more helpful and concise book. It is a joy to read and you will definitely benefit both personally and professionally from the tips that he shares. If you ever get to see a presentation by Tom in person, RUN (don't walk) to your seat in the lecture hall. His tips are practical, entertaining and based in science and experience. Thank you Tom for your contributions to our profession.

generally, it's a well taught and expounded book that very few books explain so very clearly in detail. as someone involved in raising money and promoting our non-profit, social work I am tremenously blessed and have my mind renewed and informed with fresh perspectives.

This book is easy to read, makes you laugh, teaches you how to write better and helps you raise more money. It just doesn't get any better any this. If you write anything to donors or prospective donors you should stop and read this first. You won't regret it.