Creating trust, not sales

Recently, I read some advice to salespeople that sounds a lot like the advice I give fundraisers.  So to all my for-profit colleagues here it is:

In nonprofit fund raising, I say chase the relationship not the money.  For salespeople, it's the same. Have an authentic approach and try to solve your customer's problems. 

Take the pressure off the sale (ask for money).

Shift to how you are selling (fund raising) versus what you are selling (the ask).

Now you are on the path to creating a long-lasting relationship and success in sales or fund raising!