How to Be a Successful Canvasser

PREPARE YOURSELF

  • Know your facts: read the literature
  • Know your feelings about the United Way
  • Learn as much as you can about your potential donor(s)
  • Contact potential donor(s) to determine the best time and place to talk. Arrange for appointment if necessary.
  • Keep pledge form until direct contact is possible

MAKE A SMOOTH INTRODUCTION

  • Call people you know first to develop your confidence
  • Establish the purpose of your visit
  • Explain the purpose of your visit.
  • Start the conversation on a positive, friendly note
  • Make positive points about why you support United Way

REQUEST PLEDGE

  • Make the initial request for a pledge
  • Emphasize the value of payrool deduction

DISCOVER ANY OBSTACLES TO GIVING

  • If the contributor has an objection or appears reluctant, ask for further explanations
  • Try to determine whether the contributor's objection is a reason or an excuse
  • Turn any excuse into a positive reason for giving

ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS

  • Answer any sincere questions
  • Do not guess.  If you do not know, obtain the facts from your Canvasser's Guide, Team Captain, Campaign Co-ordinator or the United Way office [(613) 342-8889].

COMPLETE THE PLEDGE FORM

  • Collect the signed pledge form duly completed
  • Fill in information on the record keeping envelope supplied to you

CLOSE THE SOLICITATION

  • Thank the contributor
  • End on a positive note
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