The Engaging Donor and the Wise Donor

In this article on Donor Personalities, we find a new challenge: double opposites! Take a look at the unique traits of these types of donors and examine ways to help them grow.

The Enneagram Twos and Fives are known as the Engaging Donor and the Wise Donor. These two personality types are not that similar and require different leadership strategies.

(For a recap of the Donor Personalities, please check out our post on this subject.)

What Each Type Brings to the Relationship

Their names give us some clues on these types of donors: Engaging Donors (Type Twos) tend to bring warmth, physical comfort, and ease, while Wise Donors (Type Fives) typically find relationships complex and difficult. This means Twos can seem easygoing about yet another outreach project, while Fives may be more challenging. How do you keep them coming to church and supporting you?

How to Help Twos and Fives with Giving

Church leaders might see both Twos and Fives as challenges, but remember that they can be very loyal donors. Wise Donor Types bring stability and quiet, especially in a crisis. They are good listeners and can give their undivided attention to your outreach projects. It is possible that their personality makes them more stable and calm than Twos, and this can provide a sense of stability and hope.

The Engaging Donor Traits

Church pastors must help Engaging Donors focus on 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

Tips for Appealing to the Engaging Donor

These are emotional donors, based on their Enneagram type. It is best to let them take part in hands-on activities, where they are around people and able to gain insights into your mission work. If you can organize outreach events with personal contact, invite them to take part.

Encourage Their Natural Drive

Getting back in touch with others, especially after an event such as the pandemic, will help these types of donors reconnect with you and your missions.

Keep Them Updated and Feeling Like Part of the Church

These are the type of people who constantly need to know you care about them as individuals, and not one of dozens or hundreds of church members. Make a point to send personal greetings on work anniversaries or birthdays.

Invite Them to Speaking Engagements

Letting them take the lead will show your trust in their social skills.

Value Their Time

Never waste a donor’s time, one of their most valuable commodities. If they cannot attend an event in person, simply save the online recordings of the outreach event and send them a link to view afterward.

Don’t Take Them for Granted

Showing your appreciation is essential. Think of ways to make them feel unique, special, and cared for.

Type 5: The Wise Donor

Wise Donors are the type who investigate and observe the world around them, and they are true visionaries. If they seem extra curious, this is a good thing, as it forces them to find better solutions to complex problems.

Most Notable Traits of a Wise Donor

What are some of the ways we can recognize a Wise Donor? Here is a good list to keep in mind:

• Curious
• Always up for a good challenge
• Perceptive
• Innovative
• A true visionary
• Academic
• Logical
• Insightful
• Observant
• Intellectual
• Worldly
• Curious
• Intelligent
• Rational
• A deep thinker

Tips for Appealing to the Wise Donor

The Wise Donors need pastors who give them their unwavering support. Here are some tips for successful relationships with your Wise Donors:

Use Discretion

While they show keen perception and razor-sharp analytical abilities, these type of donors keep their lives private and so should you. If they ever feel emotional pressure, it could cause them to withdraw from the church and mistrust you as their leader.

Make Them Feel at Home

At times, these donors may prefer to spend weekends alone rather than in a church fellowship. This is something to encourage if it makes them pursue their own interests, while still having a good balance of connection with others. Always be attentive and encouraging, focusing on the ways they bring value to your church.

Focus on Academic Principles of Giving

The values of spiritual faith and trust must be taught, but don’t be afraid to appeal to their academic side as well. There is a definite balance between complete faith and a logical approach to thinking and living. When teaching principles of giving, focus on Bible principles. Teach them to let go of emotions and things that no longer serve them.

For more insights on leading your donors, see our recent leadership blog posts.

How DonorWerx Can Help

At DonorWerx, we want to help you achieve your giving goals by planning for long-term donors through a sustainable strategy. Our digital tools help you stay relevant, adaptable, and approachable with church technology.

If you want to grow your giving but don’t know where to start, give us a call today, so we can introduce you to better donor strategies.