What others say about hiring a consultant
Here are some others' tips for the consultant selection process:- Ethical fundraising consultants work on a flat fee for the entire campaign. Never select a consultant or firm that works on a percentage of the funds raised. (Association of Fundraising Professionals Code of Ethics - www.afpnet.org)
- Develop a checklist of the criteria and services you are seeking and use the list at every presentation during the interview process. Do your best to make sure every member of your selection committee is present at each interview.
- Carefully check the fundraising consultant’s/firm's record. Ask for references and call to find out what past clients have to say about the firm you are considering.
- Understand that although a fundraising consultant is to be hired, the Board will have the actual responsibility for going to the givers and asking for the gifts...especially large ones.
- Set the campaign's ground rules before signing a contract with the consultant. Be very clear about the organization's and the consultant’s areas of responsibility.
- An outside fundraising consultant is usually the best idea in a capital campaign, especially if your goal is $250,000 or more. There will sometimes be trustees or other volunteers in the organization who claim they (or someone they know) can handle the job better and cheaper. If there is a campaign slowdown/breakdown, there is usually no second chance—it might take years before you can start another successful campaign. A professional fundraising consultant can help you avoid such problems.
- The consultant should bring to your campaign the same sense of dedication and commitment that is expected from your Board and staff.
Other Resources
- Kim Klein: Hiring a Fundraising Consultant
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Working With a Consultant or Techinical Assitance Provider: A Resource List (Foundation Center)
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Philanthropy News Digest re: Hiring a Consultant
- Tony Poderis - Fund-Raising Forum
