WHEN

WHEN to ask for a gift

Tips on frequency and timing of reaching out, the full Alumni Fund calendar, followed by monthly highlights

On average, it takes seven touches to bring in a gift to the Alumni Fund, though we find the most common range is anywhere from three to ten. We recommend that all agents reach out to their classmates at least three times a year — not just in February and March when the heat is on to get them to make their gift. Every contact you make with your assignments matters — even, and especially, those that do not include a specific ask for a contribution to the Alumni Fund.

These touches can take various forms, including casual connections (email, handwritten note, phone chat, text, or social media), pleases, and thank yous. Casual connections: anytime for any reason or no reason at all. Start a conversation with what's happening at Williams.

When should you ask for a gift?  Look on My Reports or Evertrue to see when your classmate gave last year; reach out after your head agent sends out an appeal; or follow these monthly suggestions:

• October: A quick note as the fund year kicks off, inviting them to be part of this year’s effort (and thanking them for last year’s gift). 

• November: An ask around Homecoming or the Athletic Challenge

• December: A reminder of the tax benefit for gifts made before the close of the calendar year (primarily for leadership prospects: those being asked for a gift of $2,500 or more)

• January: During the Biggest Little Community Challenge and additional multiple contacts as needed to get a gift or a “not this year, thanks”

• February/March: Be sure to reach out to all LYBUNTs before the end of the Class Agent fund drive deadline of March 15 or participate in the class LYBUNT of the Day effort.

Thank yous: Stewardship and thanks for a gift should be done soon after a gift is made.  Set up your EverTrue account to receive a notification when one of your assignments makes a gift and click on their email or phone number to thank them immediately.