The Four Buckets of a New Work Experience

Starting in a new fundraising role is always a challenge. As I’ve worked with new gift officers, the common refrain is, “I just want to get in there and get talk to donors.”  Fundraisers typically love social interaction and raising money, so I understand. At the same time, I have long coached these types of folks to slow down for just a step. I usually try to talk to them about what I’ve come to call the Four Buckets.

As new fundraisers settle in, I feel that the progressive approach can help them sort competing priorities, set expectations, and set them up for ultimate success

Know Who You Work For

Bucket number one is learning the organization. The old expression is true: you don’t get a second chance for a first impression. Before being hired, most of us learn about mission, vision and main programs associated with the company hiring us. The first few days and weeks is the opportunity provided for a deep dive and connection with the mission. It’s also the time to begin building relationships with the people you’ll rely on during going forward.  As you begin connecting with donors, this solid foundation of program information and connection to staff will pay off.

Know Your Systems

The second bucket is learning systems. Every organization has its “isms.”  These are the policies, functions and processes that are part of being an employee. For example, the new organization may use Teams, but their file organization different. Or the way you process reimbursements is all new. These seem like trivial matters, but they are the things that will take your time and energy. Learning them will add efficiencies and relieve potential stress points going forward.

Know Your Donor Data

Bucket three is learning the donor database.  If you’ve been in fundraising, the odds are high that you’ve been engaged with a donor management system. Similar bucket two, it may be that you’ve worked in the same database that your new employer uses. But learning how your new organization uses the system, and their intricacies is important. Becoming conversant in this technology is important.  Again, the efficiencies will help you as you start balancing work with donors. 

Know Your Donors

Speaking of: the fourth bucket is donors. In most fundraising positions, you’ll be inheriting a caseload of donors or be given a list of potential donors. Either way, beginning to learn more about them is key to your success.  Even with a researcher or research department, your own quick dive will provide a good basis as you move forward.  By looking in the donor database, you’ll pick up quite a few details. Your own quick dive into those files or a quick online search will provide connections and details that will help you as you begin building relationships.

Moving and Managing Buckets

Though I’ve laid out four buckets, it’s worth pointing out that the buckets are not equally sized. Initially, the first bucket, learning the organization, may seem large and overwhelming.  And the donor bucket is small. After all, you’re new and it’s okay to scale up to working with donors.  

Over time, the buckets sizes reverse. You’re well-versed in programs and know your teammates; most of your time is spent with donors.  Or, initially, your time learning systems and processes takes an inordinate amount of time.  Then as you learn more, and build efficiencies, it becomes second nature as |\ donors take center stage. 

In my years of coaching fundraisers, this simple illustration of buckets has helped normalize how challenging it can be to start a new role.  I use it myself as I start with new clients. 

Moving beyond the buckets, I also coach fundraisers about how to best to manage their time amidst competing priorities. Like the buckets, managing ourselves can break down into four key areas.

Lisa