Critical Success Factors for Development

Proverbs 15:22
"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed."

What makes a development officer successful in their work and ministry? Is it their previous experience? Probably not, unless they came from a similar institution. Is it specific training? Again, probably not since few people go to school to become fundraisers. Is it their personality? Personality is important especially if the development person is outgoing and gregarious.

However, having guidance and support from several others may be the most important factor in "raising the fundraiser". First, if you are looking for a new development person, look for these characteristics:

1. Passion - for Jesus and for the school


2. Discipling - a desire to see God's people grow in the grace of giving


3. Teachable - A wise person knows what they don't know - willing to take direction


4. Innate skills - such as writing, organizing, recruiting, motivating


5. A bias for action - if "nothing is happening", then he or she makes something happen

Now, how to help this person be successful:

1. A clear position description including general and specific goals


2. Besides the head of school (the direct supervisor), the development officer needs a board member who has a keen interest in development and who can be a helpful sounding board.


3. A mature outside mentor can be extremely helpful in training and for on-going accountability.


4. Continuing education - reading and workshops and coaching will help keep the ideas and initiatives flowing

Development is often a lonely role. It is not in the mainstream of school operations, but critical for the school's health. Take care to choose this leader well. Then, invest in their success.