Major Gift Fundraising MRI - Reflective Assessment (BETA version)

Welcome to the Major Gift Fundraising MRI

This 10-minute reflection is designed to help you uncover how you approach major gift fundraising - your strengths, instincts, and the subtle tensions you carry.

There are no wrong answers. You’re not being graded. You don’t need to complete the narrative responses.

But...

The more insight you share - especially in the narrative prompts - the more helpful, thoughtful, and personalized your feedback can be.

Take a breath. Trust your instincts.

Let this be a moment of clarity and reflection.

Preferred Email (to send feedback - not added to any list)

Q1: Relationship Rhythm

Which posture feels more like your current approach to relationships?

I often move toward invitation when I sense strong readiness or timing - I'm not averse to extending the invitation early in the relationship.

I tend to invest more time in rapport and shared experience before making any kind of invitation.

What feels natural or energizing about the way you build relationships with givers?

What feels unclear, hard, or inconsistent in this area?

Q2: Messaging Approach

Which sounds more like how you communicate your case?

I lead with a consistent message or storyline that is tailored slightly for each giver.

I’m ready with different messaging based on different passions - and I lead with what connects best based on who I’m with.

When and how does your messaging really connect with people? What makes it land?

Where do you find yourself struggling to explain the work or adapting to different types of givers?

Which describes your day-to-day operations?

I flex with systems based on what works best for me, prioritizing relational intuition and responsiveness.

I rely on strong systems to stay consistent - portfolios, touchpoints, CRMs, segmentation.

What parts of your fundraising rhythm feel solid or consistent? What tools or habits are working?

Where do you feel things slipping through the cracks - either in follow-up, tracking, or staying focused?

Q4: Storytelling & Invitation

Which describes how you present giving opportunities?

I tell stories that position the giver inside a larger narrative - one of purpose, calling, and partnership.

I lead with the cause’s top priorities and tangible opportunities - what’s needed and what could happen.

When have you felt confident and clear while inviting someone to give? What helped make that moment work?

Where do you hesitate around the ask - whether in timing, tone, or clarity?

Q5: Spiritual Grounding & Joy

Which posture feels most like you?

I live out the sacredness of this work through discipline - clear goals, careful follow-up, and a deep sense of responsibility to the mission and the giver.

I live out the sacredness of this work through posture - prayerful listening, gratitude, and the belief that every invitation is an act of joy.

What keeps you grounded or joyful in this work? Where do you sense meaning, purpose, or connection?

Where do you feel disconnected from the deeper purpose of this work - or caught in pressure, doubt, or fatigue?

✍️ Looking back at your answers, what stands out to you? What are you feeling or wondering now? (This reflection is not “scored” - it just helps you notice your own patterns.)

In the next 24 hours you will receive a short fundraising style result summary with a few practical action steps to up your game in major gift fundraising.