The Biggest Indicator of Fundraising Success? Great Leadership | Development Tips and Tricks [Video]

Consultants talk about work. Contractors do the work.

Nonprofit fundraisers don’t need another strategy session, conference, or expensive consultant—they need results. That’s why I founded The Allston Group: to get actual work done so fundraisers can focus on building relationships and closing gifts.

With over a decade of experience researching and writing thousands of high-level profiles on ultra-high net worth individuals, I know what makes donors tick—and how to equip fundraisers with actionable insights to secure transformational gifts.

For example, our flagship service – Prospect Briefings – equip executives, fundraisers, and support staff with important information on potential donors like:
✔️ How they made their money: A deep dive into their career and business success.
✔️ How they spend their money: Insights into their lifestyle, assets, and priorities.
✔️ How they share their money: A look at their philanthropic interests and networks.

Every Prospect Briefing is built on a proven template, covering:
🔍 Recent News | Career History | Company Insights | Boards & Philanthropy | Family Connections
🎯 Includes updated Capacity Ratings and Strategy Notes designed to guide your next Major Gift ask.

The difference between consulting and contracting? Results.

At The Allston Group, we don’t just provide advice—we deliver work that moves the needle.
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Today, we’re talking about something critical to your organization’s success: great development leadership.

A strong development leader can set the tone for your entire fundraising team and directly impact your ability to meet your goals. So how do you know if you’re working with one? Here are three signs you have great development leadership.

First, they know your name, your role, and what you do.The best leaders I’ve ever worked with understood exactly where I fit into their plan. They didn’t just see me as a cog in the machine—they saw how my role connected to the bigger picture. And you know what that did? It made me feel engaged, important, and empowered to do my job.

Second, they’re out meeting with donors.The best executives I’ve worked with are out there in the field—meeting donors, connecting with people, and sharing the vision of the organization. Why? Because they have the charisma and the connection to draw donors into the cause.

Third, they give credit to others.This one’s huge. The best fundraising leaders I’ve ever worked with aren’t in it for public recognition. They’re the quiet champions, the ones who uplift others, give credit where it’s due, and find real joy in mentoring their team.

If your executive is constantly talking about themselves—well, you might want to ask: what are they in this for? True leadership isn’t about the spotlight; it’s about building up the people around you.

Here’s the takeaway:Great development leadership is about connection, charisma, and humility. A great leader knows your name, builds relationships with donors, and uplifts their team at every opportunity.

At The Allston Group, we can’t fix your leadership dynamics, but we can help you raise a lot of money—and as we all know, raising money solves a lot of problems.

Contract with us to strengthen your fundraising strategy and get the results your mission deserves. Subscribe to our channel or reach out for a free consultation today. Let’s get started!