You know someone who could introduce you to a very promising prospect.
You want to ask him, but you also know what can happen. He politely gives you one hundred and one reasons why he simply can't.
Here's an approach I've found works well.
Let's say you're trying to get in with mega-philanthropist Jeff Cohen. You've discovered that one of your current donors, Jonathan Levy, knows him.
You pick up the phone and say…
“Hi, Jonathan. Can I ask you for some advice?”
People love giving advice. Jonathan will probably say, “Sure.”
So you say, “Jonathan, I understand you know Jeff Cohen, and I'd really like to get to meet him. I think he may connect with what we're doing.
I don't want to just reach out to him cold. What do you think would be the best way to approach him?”
At this point, of course, Jonathan might say, “Oh, I can make an intro for you.” And then you can put down the phone, say, “Well, that was easy BH!,” and have a little l’chayim.
But he might also say something like, “Just email him.”
In that case, ask him if you could use his name in your email so the outreach isn’t totally cold. If he agrees, go ahead and write a subject line like: “Jonathan Levy Intro.”
There's a much better chance Jeff will open the email when he sees his friend's name.
Once you've made some progress with Jeff, let Jonathan know. He took the time to help you, and it's important to keep him updated and show your appreciation.
Want an intro? Start by asking for advice.
Before trying this, do enough research on your prospective donor so you're well prepared.
Make it a goal to open at least one of these conversations every week.
Give it a try, and let me know how it goes!
Hatzlacha raba!
Avraham
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