photo by Cheng l

Eight meetings on the Hill.

A blitz of cab rides between the House and Senate.

Way too much coffee.

What was my goal?

To deliver a spot-on perfect pitch to the Queens Delegation for my Artful Business proposal.

Katherine DeFoyd of Growth for Good and I introduced this project to them in October seeking their advice and suggestions.

We are back for a second visit – she wolves in Washington.

How do you make your project stand out?

All politics is local politics.
Legislators want to know how your work benefits their districts. Just as smart job seekers will craft a well written cover letter that demonstrates an understanding of the company, a nonprofit will immediately improve their funding appeal by citing how many people they serve in a politician’s voter base. How can you be helpful to them?

Presenting yourself as a valuable partner in doing good work increases your chances of consideration.

Give before you get

I know this sounds counterintuitive when you are asking for money. Some people call this focused generosity. You can also look at this as creating a web of indebtedness. The best relationships are those grounded in a culture of inspired giving. Be the first giver, generous of spirit and sincere in being helpful to others. The return to you will be all that a growing and giving relationship can bestow.

When I pitch, Katherine will watch, listen and wait for them to tell us what they need. Without missing a beat, this she wolf will pick up my lead and speak to how we, project aside, can be a resource, a helpful partner to them.

Rinse and repeat.

Managing expectations is good practice. Managing perceptions is a great skill.

Never underestimate good karma.

Get more Wow!

If you want style notes and more for people who change the world,? please check out:

Getting to Wow! to feel good, do good and look good

Nonprofit Knitwear for all things knit and nonprofit

Style Notes from me, your artspy

Hoong Yee