The Engaging Donor and the Spontaneous Donor (Types 2 and 7)
Based on the Enneagram, which donor personalities are you surrounded by? In this article, we look at another interesting combination: The Engaging Donor and the Spontaneous Donor (Types 2 and 7). Now that you have been learning about the importance of
, it is good to ask yourself what changes you can make to your church giving strategy. These two are frequently mistaken for the same type of personality, perhaps because both can be emotional, and make decisions based on feelings rather than logic. Let’s dive deeper into what makes the Engaging Donor and the Spontaneous Donor so unique.
Type Two: The Engaging Donor
People with an Enneagram Type Two personality are more generous, altruistic, and empathetic. You learn to value these types of donors if they commit to your church. They are hardworking and motivated people with a drive to connect with the world. But even better, they love attending to other people and feeling helpful.
must introduce Engaging Donors to church outreach programs that appeal to their social, selfless side.
Most Notable Traits:
- “Heart of gold”
- Emotionally driven
- Caring
- Sentimental
- Empathetic
- Natural around people
- Enjoys hands-on outreach events
- Often busy with social events
What should pastors watch out for in this personality type? Beware of the following things that easily stress Type Twos:
- Situations where their personal needs are disregarded
- Criticism or neglect from others
- The tendency to feel overwhelmed by the community needs
- Rejection or feeling left out
Tips for Appealing to the Engaging Donor
Based on their
, Engaging Donors are also very emotional donors. Encourage them to take part in hands-on activities, let them be around people, and include them in your mission project updates so they don’t feel left out.
Type Seven: The Spontaneous Donor
Now, we shift focus to donors with an Enneagram Type Seven (Also known as the Adventurer). This personality tends to be enthusiastic, adventurous, and spontaneous.
Their behavior is fun but can be hard to predict. They love seeking new experiences, are people-oriented, and enjoy pursuing new relationships. Type
need pastors who are excellent
. You must work on building an authentic relationship with them, rather than focusing on only getting more donations.
Here are some common traits of the Type Seven Spontaneous Donor:
- Spontaneous
- Emotional
- Life of the party
- Joyful
- Gives spontaneously
- Moody
- Led by their feelings
- Extroverted
- Optimistic
- Versatile
- Playful
- High-spirited
- Practical
If you want to avoid stressing out the Spontaneous Donor, be aware of these triggers:
- Schedules, rules, and limits
- Negativity or negative energy
- Routines that become boring
- Controlling leaders or managers
- Lack of choice, stifling of their freedom
What Else Should Church Leaders Know About the Engaging Donor and the Spontaneous Donor?
Although both types enjoy being with people, their styles are quite different, so don’t use the same appeal when asking for donations. The Engaging Donor, as their name suggests, is more interpersonal and interested in others. But this quality can become a negative one if they take the concern too far and start meddling.
Sevens are not the type to become too embroiled with others people’s issues and personal lives. They enjoy the company of others and gravitate toward your church fellowships. But they will keep their boundaries and never get too involved. Once they feel that you as a church or pastor are becoming too involved with their affairs, whether financial or otherwise, they may pull away.
When asking for donations, the projects that appeal to them are the ones that help others find comfort and pleasure in life. They may sponsor an orphanage program or home for the elderly, for example. They want to know that, due to their generosity, others can also experience a more comfortable life.
How Can Pastors Build Trust with the Spontaneous and Engaging Donors?
Twos tend to trust the kind of
who can express their emotions and connect on a deeper level. Sevens usually trust churches that provide them the freedom to pursue their interests, hobbies, and fresh adventures.
Never get them involved in an outreach project or program where they feel overly tied down or stifled. In your church community, you may notice that Twos bring generosity and patience while Sevens offer creativity and open-mindedness.
How DonorWerx Can Help
These donors will appreciate churches that have solid programs in place. Any way that you can help them stay connected to the community will be valued.
At DonorWerx, we have created done-for-you templates and can give you the digital resources to grow your giving and appeal to donors. Contact us for a Discovery Call to find out more today.
