Solo Scripting: Playing Both Sides

Nonprofit fundraisers are tasked with communicating effectively with donors and persuading them to support the organization's mission. One effective way to develop these skills is through solo scripting exercises, also known as Playing Both Sides. By writing a script and role-playing both the fundraiser and the donor, fundraisers can practice their communication and persuasion skills on their own time and at their own pace. Solo scripting exercises are a valuable tool for both new and experienced fundraisers, as they can help build confidence, prepare for different types of donor interactions, and develop effective strategies for handling objections or difficult questions.

To do the solo scripting exercise, you'll need to follow a few simple steps:

1. Choose a scenario: Identify a scenario that you might encounter in your fundraising work, such as a donor expressing concern about the nonprofit's financial management or asking for more information about the nonprofit's impact.

2. Write out the scenario: Write out the scenario in detail, including the donor's concerns and any objections they might raise.

3. Create a script: Using the scenario you wrote, create a script that includes both the donor's and the fundraiser's dialogue. Stretch your imagination muscles and visualize yourself in the environment with the donor. What might they say? What words do they choose to use? What words do you choose in response?

4. Role-play both sides: Play the role of both the fundraiser and the donor and practice your responses to the scenario. Focus on your communication and persuasion skills and try to be as persuasive as possible in both roles.

5. Evaluate your performance: After practicing your responses, evaluate your performance in writing. Consider what worked well and what you could improve on and think about ways to be more effective in your communication and persuasion.

6. Repeat the exercise: Choose another scenario and repeat the exercise. The more you practice, the more confident you'll become in your ability to handle different types of donor interactions.

The Playing Both Sides exercise can be a valuable tool for nonprofit fundraisers who want to build their asking skills. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or new to the role, solo scripting exercises can help you become more effective in your communication and fundraising efforts.

Remember, it's important to be honest with yourself and seek feedback from others when possible. Although this exercise is designed for the solo fundraiser, consider practicing with others and ask for constructive feedback.