Are your appeals the absolute best they can be?

I sure love checklists, because they're simple ways to make sure your communications will perform as well as possible.  (As seen earlier here on my blog.)  Do yourself a favor and check out this list of ideas from Showcase of Fundraising Innovation and Inspiration.  It's terrific!

I have a few things to say about it:

• It's fantastic that they use neuromarketing ideas. (#1-6)

• Note #7—reciprocity.  As SOFII say here, "use with care and prudence," so as not to cause "obligation to descend into resentment."  I say stick with this part of that idea: "Perhaps there are better things [than items] you can 'give'...such as special access, insider information – or even gratitude..."

• I love the (non-mandatory, non-monetary) pledge for new donors to "‘continue [her] regular gift for as long as [she] can afford it'" in #8.

• #12's idea about limiting the number of donors for a project with special benefits is incredible.  If you ask me, that's what the point of #7 is—talk about your special access!

  How can you apply these principles to your fundraising?