# Diary of a Newcomer pt2

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/2008/08/25/diary-newcomer-pt2/
- Published: 2008-08-25T11:21:25+01:00
- Author: Howard Lake

What does the term ‘telephone fundraising’ say to you?

As I mentioned in Pt1 I have come from a highly commercial background and am finding
it refreshing to be dealing with people that have time to listen. One of the key
things that I am concentrating on is listening to others.

Now most of the time this works, but…

## Advertisement

I was surprised to find a number of ‘experienced fundraisers’ do not seem fully 
aware of just what is available to them in terms of tools to achieve their desired
outcomes. Or totally misunderstand how these tools can be utilised.

In recent discussions either online (forums and email) or on the phone I have encountered
the belief upon mentioning telephone fundraising that I was involved in selling 
telephone systems, mobile phones, or software.

When in truth all I wanted to do was talk to individuals about their roles, their
respective charities, and what challenges and pain they are facing in the short,
medium, and long term. No sales pitch at all – and certainly not phone systems or
mobiles!! Ugghh!!

So now I have started to use the phrase ‘voice to voice’ communications just to 
avoid the misunderstanding. This seems to be working – I wonder what you (my blog
reader) think?

I wonder what others’ perception of telephone fundraising is? I’d be interested 
to hear.

Oh well, just a quick blog today as I ready myself for a trip to Orlando with my
wife and two daughters – Emily 10 and Daisy 7 – Busch Gardens, Seaworld, Aquatica,
Disney, here we come. Back early September for a rest!!

Many thanks for reading and I look forward to your comments – Keith.

 * **[Mandie McKeown arrested in Beijing](https://fundraising.co.uk/2008/08/25/mandie-mckeown-arrested-beijing/)**(
   25 August 2008)
 * **[Six degrees of Ken Burnett](https://fundraising.co.uk/2008/08/26/six-degrees-ken-burnett/)**(
   26 August 2008)
 * **[The Girl Effect](https://fundraising.co.uk/2008/09/10/girl-effect/)** (10 
   September 2008)