Mike King
Hi I’m Mike. My job involves reporting accurately on donors signed up , analysing attrition levels and generally aiming to provide a quality service to our charity partners.
- Mike King, Account Manager, Future Fundraising
How long have you been in Fundraising?
Almost four years. I spent most of that time working for a children’s charity. I joined Future Fundraising in October.
What were you doing before?
I was working for Lloyds Insurance brokers. I started my career in the City of London.
What appeals to you about fundraising?
Its all about helping to make a positive difference. Insurance offered job security but I didn’t get job satisfaction, and would sometimes wake up in the morning and wonder what was the point of going to work at all ..
What’s your typical day at Future?
The focus is on updating our charity partners on their current regular giving campaigns, week by week. I also attend meetings with them, and with our face to face fundraising team at Fundraising Vision.
The other part of my role is about stepping back from the current results to analyse the data in greater depth, which can be as important as the immediate results.
What has been your best ever day in fundraising?
It was helping to raise £300,000 at the Childline’s Got Talent Ball in 2010.
What/Who inspires you?
People who go the extra mile in support of others and the causes they believe in. Field fundraisers on the front line who have to deal with negative attitudes and are able to open people’s hearts and minds to how important it is to give to a charity.
What is the worst thing about fundraising?
Many people still have the misconception that charities are solely funded by the government, so it can be a hurdle to influence those who don’t already give to ’do their bit’. There are so many vulnerable people who rely heavily on the services of charities.
What is the best piece of advice you could give someone about to start in fundraising?
Find a cause that motivates you as that is the most important thing; it will be recognised in an interview.
Put all your fundraising experience on your cv, but if you are straight out of university it could be worth analysing your key strengths. Charities don’t just need front line extrovert people, they need finance, admin and other skills to make sure they achieve their objectives.
