As every fundraising pro knows, raising money is the backbone of a successful campaign. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned veteran, staying ahead means constantly refining your craft. From classic fundraising principles to fresh, strategic approaches, these four books should be on every political fundraiser’s bookshelf.

The Little Book of Gold: Fundraising for Small (and Very Small) Nonprofits by Erik Hanberg

This practical guide offers a step-by-step approach to professional fundraising, tailored specifically for small organizations, which makes it invaluable for local and state campaigns. Hanberg provides actionable advice on avoiding common pitfalls and implementing proven methods that work.

Whether you’re a campaign manager or a key staff member, this book equips you with the fundamentals of sustainable fundraising, making it easier to unlock your campaign’s full potential, even on a tight budget.

Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini

In this updated edition of his bestselling classic, Cialdini – renowned for his expertise in influence and persuasion – dives into the psychology behind why people say “yes.” With engaging stories and relatable examples, he breaks down his Universal Principles of Influence, offering fresh insights and new research.

This book is a powerful tool for fundraisers, providing the knowledge needed to craft compelling appeals that ethically persuade donors. Additionally, Cialdini teaches readers how to recognize and defend against manipulative tactics, making this essential reading for anyone looking to master the art of influence in fundraising.

How to Win Friends and Influence People in the Digital Age by Dale Carnegie & Associates

This modern take on the classic How to Win Friends and Influence People translates timeless relationship-building advice into today’s digital world. For political fundraisers, building and maintaining relationships is everything. 

This book helps you connect with donors online and offline, create engaging content, and make your messages stick in an era where attention is a rare commodity.

The Fundraiser’s Guide to Irresistible Communications by Jeff Brooks

Jeff Brooks’ guide dives deep into the art of communication. Political campaigns live or die by their messaging, and this book offers practical tips on crafting compelling fundraising appeals. 

Brooks breaks down the psychology behind why people give and how fundraisers can use this knowledge to write stronger, more persuasive asks. For campaign professionals, this book is a goldmine for improving both email and direct mail appeals.

Take Your Fundraising to the Next Level

Successful fundraising requires both art and science. By learning from others in the field, you can refine your skills, build stronger donor relationships, and bring in the funds your campaign needs to succeed. These four books offer insights that go beyond politics – they’ll help you become a more effective, strategic, and persuasive fundraiser.

At ContactDrive, we’re here to support your efforts every step of the way. Whether you’re reaching out to small donors or seeking mega gifts, our tools help you stay organized, personalize your outreach, and maximize your impact. Ready to take your fundraising to the next level? Try ContactDrive free for 14 days!