During Jay Goulart’s presentation he told us “language is key!” And then he told us that we could say it like Martin Luther King Jr. – I have a DREAM – or we could say it like a professional – I have a list of measurable objectives. Which language do you speak?

This entertaining presentation was to the AFP Suncoast chapter on February 15, 2011 and Jay is Director of Advancement at the Academy at the Lakes. He has definitely presented to groups before and even has a website to prove it: www.jaygoulart.com.

Jay said something else that really made an impression on me. He painted a picture. Imagine yourself going to the dealership to buy a car. In order to get your car you have to purchase the tires, engine and body – all from separate people at the same dealership. What a hot mess that would be!

Now imagine yourself wanting to give to an organization, but in order to become a donor you have to give to annual fund, holiday drive, and capital campaign – all separately. We need to build jointed, holistic relationships with our donors. It’s okay if they have to first talk to sales and then financing and then delivery, but let’s make them smooth and understandable transitions.

Jay said lots of other stuff too, but, hey, not everything sticks – even when it’s only thirty minutes or less. If you’re reading this Jay, I’d be curious what you felt was the most important message in your presentation and whether I mentioned it.

Thanks for the great presentation Jay! And I hope you folks in the Tampa Bay area will be sure to join me at the next AFP Suncoast chapter meeting on March 15, 2011.