Here's how you can navigate networking etiquette in the philanthropy industry.

Having served in grantmaking leadership roles for 25+ years, it is quite effective to have potential grant seekers approach us at events and be genuinely curious about the work we our doing; the new paper we just issued..... The worst behaviors are, of course, when folks are trying to sell you their needs like a bad car salesman--even defaulting to the desperate-- "So you all don't care about children/older adults/people with chronic illness etc"

Setting clear goals before engaging in networking activities is vital in the philanthropy sector. Knowing your objectives helps focus your efforts and ensures that interactions are meaningful and aligned with your organization’s mission. By prioritizing quality over quantity in your connections, you build stronger, more impactful relationships that can lead to valuable collaborations and support. This approach not only maximizes the benefits of networking but also demonstrates professionalism and strategic thinking. Taking the time to understand and articulate your goals can significantly enhance your networking effectiveness and overall success in the philanthropy industry.

Debemos recordar que el respeto y los buenos modales son muy importantes y los inversionistas no solo evalúan los beneficios que puede ofrecer un negocio o lo brillante de una idea. Ellos están muy pendientes de la actitud de los emprendedores, entienden sus pasiones y son empáticos. Pero pueden sentirse abrumados por personas muy insistentes, las cuales creen que abordando con ventajas a los inversionistas pueden tener más oportunidades y eso puede ser contraproducente. Debemos ser educados y prudentes

In the movies, the fundraiser walks in and introduces themselves to the philanthropist and says something impressive about their background and by the end of the episode, secures all the funding they could imagine. If only it were this easy. But researching who you will be talking to absolutely goes a long way. Sometimes the simplest phrase, "Tell me how you started your company," for instance, can take you miles. I once met Karsten Solheim at an event and thanked him for his support. I was trying to make small talk but wasn't getting anywhere. Then I just asked, "Hey, how did you make your first putter?" We talked for 2 hours. People like talking about themselves. Good etiquette is letting them.

Etiquette is not just verbal, yet encompasses all manner of speech, introduction to end of conversation. The way you walk, dress; from head to toe (yes shoes) should radiate quality and your appearance flawless. Your gestures the way you use utensils and hold a glass/ cup and napkin placement and use of is essential. Yes, as in government and any gala you should know everyone's name and respect is key to all deserving or not.

Estoy totalmente de acuerdo. Solo agregaría que no solo debes ser inteligente, debes aparentar ser inteligente, además debes comportarte a la altura del recinto y las personas con las que vas a tratar. Lograr tus objetivos depende de varios factores entre ellos: 1.- Estar claro con lo que estás buscando 2.- Saber exponer tu idea de la forma más clara y concisa. 3.- Tener conocimientos de storytelling y aplicarlos. 4.- Debes sentirte como alguien que pertenece a ese sitio, eres de allí, por lo tanto las personas con las que hablaras son tus pares. De esa forma te sentirás mejor al hablar y ellos también. 5.- No pierdas el foco y se paciente. No demuestres desesperación.

Los números son importantes, pero los inversionistas quieren saber la historia que hay detrás del emprendedor y su idea. Muéstrales el camino del héroe, usa esa metodología, debes haberla practicado antes y saber como hacerlo. No seas mecánico al hablar, tampoco rebuscado, usa un lenguaje sencillo pero claro, se amigable, sonríe y haz del encuentro un momento interesante y jovial.

I think the most important part is being genuine. I love meeting new people and learning about them. I genuinely like people and find their stories interesting.

Key word here is listening. Many mistake ‘active listening’ as their chance to pitch. If you take the time to digest the perspective of the other person, you will often not only have questions easily answered but you may find more avenues of collaborative synergy.

Para poder manejar la escucha activa primero debes practicar la presencia. Para poder escuchar con detenimiento y realmente captar lo que se está hablando debemos estar presentes, no solo fisicamente, sino mentalmente. Para ello debes debes recibir entrenamiento y practicar para que manejes esas técnicas a la perfección.

I so agree !!!! I believe “active listening “ is important in every aspect of my life . Professional life as an Academic Adviser at UAGC. As well as working with clients who hire our band to perform . Last, but not least, please use active listening with your co- workers , clients , audience and … Stay tuned as I keep listening actively to all of you !

The art of listening is subtle but the most powerful. Invest your interest in others so they may invest in you. Networking without genuine interests is fluff talk. Discussions happen both ways.

Make it as personal as possible. If they mentioned it was their child’s birthday or they were headed out on travel - ask how it went! It shows you were present in the prior interaction and that you genuinely care.

La única forma que la persona pueda recordar quién eres es que hayas hecho preguntas interesantes y tu exposición de motivos y necesidades sea lógica e interesante. Debes tener control de toda la información de tu negocio o idea y ser capaz de hablar con números, comparaciones y de la competencia de manera efectiva.

I love this post . FOLLOW UP, follow up and yes “follow up “. Thank you for sharing . I love sending personalized messages, cards, phone calls and email’s.

To excel in philanthropic networking, prioritize authentic connections. Understand others' missions, share insights, and offer support. Attend events, engage on social media, and follow up promptly. Prioritize relationships over transactions, demonstrating long-term commitment to positive impact.

Do not feel pressure to act or show up like others. Don't play the respectability politics game because it's not worth having people walk all over you for a gift or to climb the ladder. Remember that our sector is born out of the weaknesses and failures of capitalism and if you are truly wanting to affect change in society, push for social justice and always defend the oppressed. Don't play the game and let the oppressors hanging a carrot in front of your face to get a gift. If your organization or employer is forcing you to demean yourself, get out and find somewhere else to share your talents.

Read the room — first encounters aren’t always the best place to pitch for funding. Sometimes exciting someone who doesn’t know about your organization is enough to initiate a follow up and more in depth conversation.

Building strong connections relies on honest communication. While immediate collaboration might not be possible with everyone you meet, being upfront about that is far more beneficial than raising false hopes or wasting anyone's time. Honesty fosters trust, which is crucial for future opportunities, even if they don't arise right away. By being upfront about collaboration limitations, you demonstrate respect for the other person's time and lay the groundwork for a more positive professional relationship.

Philanthropy should be joyful and it is also deeply personal. This is at the core of our work. Remembering to make this work joyful AND meaningful makes all the difference!

Since the agenda is exclusively for philanthropy, one needs to focus more on the emotion of doing good and making a difference rather than what you might bring to the table or your individual "value proposition". The smallest of contribution should enjoy the same applause as the biggest. As it isn't always about the quantum but the intent and participation. The feeling of, a community coming together in order to help a cause, makes everyone feel like a winner.