5 reasons why introverts make great fundraisers

What's your fundraising style?

Does the idea of rallying a crowd for an event (even virtually) or talking in front of a group of people fill you with dread? Do you feel uncomfortable signing up for a challenge and asking people for money?

Maybe you think fundraising is for bold, enthusiastic people who are not scared of putting themselves ‘out there’ and taking the lead?

A world of extroverts

It’s true that society, on the whole, tends to notice people who are more extroverted. People who speak out, who exude loads of energy and have many followers.

Maybe as a child or even in your job, you were encouraged to step out of your comfort zone, speak in public and go to networking events. Situations which only resulted in making you feel uncomfortable, when actually your true strengths were lying elsewhere and untapped.

The talents of introverted fundraisers

In reality, introverts have many qualities that are too often overlooked. And when it comes to fundraising, they bring strengths that any charity would cherish:

1. Introverts listen
   Introverts tend to spend more time listening rather than talking. Many introverts will take time to get to know individuals on a deeper level, ask questions and better understand them. This gives great insight when it comes to communicating with those you hope to receive donations from.
   
   
2. Introverts build strong relationships
   Because introverts often prefer talking to one person at a time, instead of a group of people, they have richer conversations with people. This helps build meaningful and personal relationships that build trust and keep the donors engaged.
   
   
3. Introverts have unique, independent views
   Introverts enjoy spending time on their own and reflecting. These moments of solitude help with processing thoughts. The result can be more measured, considered thinking. When others may be swayed by public opinion, these genuine, thought-through views can stand out.
   
   
4. Introverts are very creative
   Some introverts find they thrive in an environment where they can lose themselves in a task and be creative. This could be anything from writing, to design, to research and data analysis. All are important skills when it comes to fundraising.
   
   
5. Introverts can be great organisers
   Soft-spoken but with laser-sharp acumen, introverts can lead a team of people well – including the extroverts, as they help to channel their bountiful energy where it’s going to make the most difference. Also, because they are sparse with their words, when introverts talk, people listen.

Fundraising ideas for introverts

Maybe not all fundraising ventures are appealing to introverts, but with this cohort of talents, here are a few ideas that may inspire the most introverted of fundraisers.

Get creative and sell what you make

It’s easier to ask for money when there’s a ‘value exchange’. So, if you’re good at making things (whether it’s a hobby or a skill you want to experiment with), have fun with your art and sell what you’ve created on eBay or directly to your friends, family and community.

When it comes to being creative, the possibilities are endless:

• Cards for any occasion
• Arts (paintings, frames, photography)
• Homemade jewellery or pottery
• Baking cakes, biscuits, sweets or even meals
• Needlework (knitting, crochet, handmade clothes/accessories)
• Upcycling old furniture or objects (donated for free)
• Homemade beauty or cleaning products (such as soap, dishwasher tablets)
• Plants or food seedlings

The Captain Tom 100 Challenge: Do it Your Way

Captain Sir Tom Moore’s family have launched a fundraising challenge to continue Captain Tom’s legacy and help support UK charities: The Captain Tom 100 Challenge. To take part, people sign up to do a challenge on the 100 theme, anytime from Friday 30 April to Monday 3 May. For example, you could do something 100 times or for 100 minutes (maybe inspired by some of the previous ideas).
So, whether it’s about writing 100 book reviews or picking up litter for 100 minutes, you can do it your way. Sign up or donate directly to World Vision UK's Captain Tom 100 Challenge page.

Cook-along with Nigerian chef Tomi

If you fancy doing something new at home, join us on Zoom and learn to cook a delicious dish from Nigeria. To celebrate African culture, World Vision is proud to be partnering with vegan Nigerian chef Tomi Makanjuola to host an online cook-along session. Invite your friends to share this experience together whilst raising money for vulnerable children. Contact us to find out more.

Offer your services for a donation

You know people and what they need. Maybe you could help them in some way and raise money in the process. Again, many options are available from helping people with maintaining their garden, cleaning cars, picking up orders, building flat packs, doing the odd DIY jobs and much more.
You could help local charities or food banks collect unsold but edible food from supermarkets. Or help your friends declutter, collect their unwanted items and sell them or donate them to charity.

Easy Fundraising online

There are platforms such as Kindred or Easy Fundraising and also Amazon that allow you to collect money as you shop. Share these links with your friends and family so that every time they shop with your link, you collect money for your charity.

Fundraising tips for introverts

Whatever you decide to do, know that your talents as an introvert are very valuable for any charity. If you’re new to fundraising, here are some fundraising starter tips:

Start small. Fundraising can be daunting, but you may find that after talking to one person, then another one, it may be easier than you think.

Focus on the cause you’re passionate about. If you’re focusing on what you love, the charity you’re representing, and its beneficiaries, it’s easier to reach out to people. Your audience is focused on the charity and what it’s doing, not on you.

Take time alone to recharge. If you do get involved in talking to loads of people, schedule some quiet time afterwards to get your energy back.

Be prepared. Before you have conversations with people, it may help and give you confidence if have all your points written down so you can refer to these easily and not worry about missing anything out.

Peer with an extrovert. You may feel anxious in a group, yet vulnerable on your own. Joining forces with an extrovert is the perfect combination to complement each other’s strengths for the perfect fundraiser.

Our Community Fundraising team is always here to help. If you’d like to discuss ideas or need resources, please don’t hesitate to send us an email at fundraising@worldvision.org.uk or contact Charlotte or Janet on 01908 244417.

Happy fundraising!