Let's talk about follow-ups! One of the best places to start with follow-up is during the actual appointment. A couple of ways this can be done:
- If someone says yes to giving, be sure you ask, "Great, when do you think it would be possible for you to start your giving?"
- If someone says, "I'm not sure if I can give..." "I don't know how much..." I say, "Great! I'd love to check back in with you on that decision. Is tomorrow too soon? "
- Be sure to set the expectation for the next time you'll talk/check in. This builds trust (when you contact them when you said you would), and it keeps you accountable for following up.
1st follow-up after an ask is the thank you. Send it w/in 24 hours. Hand-written card, when possible.
Additional follow-ups include calls, text, voice memos, DM, email (a copy of your latest prayer letter), etc.
- Phone call: "I know you've been praying about partnering with me in ministry, and I wanted to see how that decision is going." (wait for a response) "Would a few more days give you the ability to come to a decision? Let's see, today is Monday. How about I give you a call back on Wednesday?"
- Use a date as a motivator: "I'm praying in faith that the Lord will gather 6 people to become $100 a month ministry partners with me by September 30th. Would you be one of those 6 people for me?" *People will rise to the occasion when you give them a specific amount and a date because they want to be the hero.
- If they've said yes and have procrastinated signing up, send a text: Hey, wanted to know if you could start your giving before the end of this month. I can jump on the phone with you and walk you through it. It will take 3 minutes.
- If they've said yes and have procrastinated signing up, send a text: Hey, wanted to know if you could start your giving before the end of this month. I can jump on the phone with you and walk you through it. It will take 3 minutes.
- If someone is ready to give, ask, "If you have 8 minutes right now, I can walk you through how to set up that giving. Would that be helpful for you?" FYI: You'll need to know how to walk someone through how to start up a gift online. Here’s how:
- When someone is not returning your call, it’s okay to take a break from reaching out to them. BUT before you do that, make sure you've had at least 7 connections with them (texts, calls, appointments, emails, thank you note, etc). It takes an average of 7 times for someone to hear a message before they will act on it. If you're not yet at this average, then it's not time to take a break. If you have hit 7 connections and it's time to take a break, make sure you give them the date when you will reach out again. This is a relationship-builder that helps establish trust. Sample script: “Hey, it seems like you’re in a busy season right now. I completely understand. You can trust me to reach back out to you on _____ date."
Also, see:
- Follow Up Sequence for how often to follow up after an MTD meeting.
- Close Chart