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If you’re on track with your year end calendar, it probably feels like November at your office – which means you are BUSY!

Here’s a quick list of common fundraising pitfalls to avoid in order to create stellar year end campaigns.

1. Don’t focus an appeal on your organization’s anniversary, or your founder’s birthday. Talk about your mission, the people you help, and the people who make your work possible.
2. Don’t be all me, me, me (or us, us, us). Your appeals should be about what your donor has accomplished and will accomplish with her support.
3. Don’t write a one-page letter because your boss says she doesn’t read long letters. Don’t be afraid of a four-page letter (or longer, if you need it).
4. Don’t write for yourself … or your Board.
5. Don’t write by committee.
6. Don’t say “Dear Friend” if you don’t have to.
7. Don’t have dual signers (in most cases). Do have a consistent voice.
8. Don’t ask again before saying “Thank you” for a previous gift. Remember that a receipt is not an acknowledgment.
9. Don’t spend a lot on full color, fancy design or special printing. Do invest in elements likely to lift response, like more personalization and first class postage for your best donors.
10. Don’t forget who your best donors are. Your current donors are your best ones – not your prospects. The donor who just gave to you is most likely to give again. Focus your resources here.
11. Don’t be intimidated by writing your appeals. After all, it’s the thing you love – talking about the great work you’re doing to the people who already understand and support you.
12. Don’t send your appeals late. Late appeals affect response. Remember, 90% perfect, 100% on time.
13. Don’t sacrifice your fundraising to your brand. Your brand is about you. Fundraising is about your donors.
14. Don’t worry about things that are not response-affecting. (You have enough to worry about already!)