How do you build relationships with potential donors you have never met in person?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

The advent of technology has streamlined communication, making it easier to connect with people living in other cities, states, countries, and time zones. In addition, more people are working from home than ever before. As a result, efforts to enhance strategic partnerships have expanded, and fundraisers should be prepared to develop remote relationships as a result. The interviewer wants to know that you are able to maintain relationships remotely.

If you have ever initiated and maintained relationships with donors living elsewhere, explain what strategies you employed to solidify those. Consistent and clear communication is key in this scenario. You can also emphasize how important it is to educate yourself about the donor's home country and culture if they live abroad, and how you adjust your schedule in order to account for time zone differences.

"During my work in international development, I was required to hold countless meetings utilizing video chat technology such as Skype and Zoom. I learned the importance of maintaining eye contact online by looking into the camera instead of at the screen. This helps strengthen human interactions when you cannot meet in person. In addition, I think it is important to make sure communication is constant and informative so that the donor or potential donor is thinking about you on a regular basis."

"I think cultural sensitivity is quite important, particularly when it comes to working with clients living overseas. In the past, I have worked with strategic partners living in Brazil, Saudi Arabia, China, Turkey, South Korea, and elsewhere. I took the time to educate myself on customs, traditions, and even some basic elements of the language. Showing this level of care and attention to the donor's culture helps foster a trust dynamic and strengthens the bonds they share with an organization. This is how I begin any relationship, but I find it particularly effective when it comes to engaging donors abroad."