Written communication can be powerful when it is done well, or it can be a waste of time when it is done poorly.
There are many ways to communicate with ministry partners in writing. These general principles can make each one more relational and effective.
Write often
With partners, once a month is not too often. For people to feel part of your life and ministry, they need to hear what you are doing and how it is going. Even more importantly, they need to feel important to you. They need to see that you care about them, not just the money they send.
Balance personal and ministry news
It is important to share news about your ministry, but people are usually more interested in news about you and your family. When I receive letters and emails from people in ministry, the first thing I do is scan for something personal about them or about me.
Share joys, trials, burdens, and emotions
People respond to emotions, not just facts. We have found that people respond deeply when we share joys and Scripture, especially during hard times.
Good communication helps partners feel that they belong to the mission and matter to you.
Excerpted from Never Do Fundraising Again: A Paradigm Shift from Donors to Lifelong Partners.