The Perfect Ask

Course Description:
"The Perfect Ask" is a participatory workshop which explores tried and true strategies for soliciting major gifts.  Using a linear approach to outline the process, workshop participants are provided with a checklist of solicitation considerations, from scheduling the meeting to closing the deal.  Whether you are a new volunteer or seasoned development professional, by the end of the workshop, you will not only build a comfort level for leading up to and delivering a "Perfect Ask," but more importantly, you will understand why process is much more important than outcome!

By the end of the workshop, participants will:

• Receive a checklist of considerations for the process of solicitation;
• Appreciate how preparation for solicitations begins a successful journey;
• Recognize scheduling as the most challenging issue with face-to-face asks;
• Understand how to balance small talk (whether they like to do it or not!);
• Find their own voice in developing The Perfect Ask;
• Gain confidence, not arrogance, to drive solicitations to completion;
• Arm themselves with ammunition to combat unexpected happenings.

About the Presenter:
Robert Bull has nearly 20 years of successful fundraising experience for nonprofit organizations, both as a development officer and as a consultant. His professional fundraising skills include campaign planning and management, major gift strategy development and solicitation; special events management; direct mail and phonathon organization; volunteer leadership recruitment and development; and the art of "The Perfect Ask!"

Mr. Bull joined The Compass Group after a six-year career as a senior consultant with Ketchum, Inc., where he provided fundraising counsel to more than 25 nonprofit organizations. Since joining The Compass Group, Mr. Bull has consulted to a variety of organizations in social services, education, the arts and the environment.

A native of Baltimore, Mr. Bull is a graduate of the Baltimore School of Arts, and holds a degree in theatre and arts administration from Goucher College, and most recently completed a master's of science in Organizational Leadership and Management. He is a member of the Association for Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE). He is a frequent presenter and panelist at regional and national conferences sponsored by AFP and the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

Mr. Bull volunteers at his alma mater, Goucher College. Honored to serve as a trustee, he is actively involved on the board's development committee, cultivating and soliciting fellow alumni for the advancement of the institution. He currently serves as the immediate past president of the Alumnae Association of Goucher College and, prior to this appointment, served for five years as chair of the college's annual fund.