What to Do: Talk about the results the charity has achieved so far and why it’s relevant to the person you’re asking, says fund-raiser Cindy Schneible. “At a very basic level, that shows a compelling need for support,” she says. Making it perfectly clear what the money will be used for gives someone a concrete reason to donate.

What Not to Do: You’ll have a lot more success if you’re forthright, says Schneible. “Make sure your message is one of enthusiasm and passion for how you can make a difference,” she says. No one wants to support a cause that she isn’t encouraged to feel passionate about.

Sample Script: “With just donor support, we’ve managed to build a new library for the school. The kids say having a space to sit and read makes them feel comfortable and really excited about reading.”