Using Small Talk to Build Trust and Stronger Donor Relationships

Fundraising is built on relationships, and relationships often begin with small talk. Yet many professionals see small talk as awkward, forced or something to get through before the “real” conversation begins. 

This interactive session reframes small talk as a powerful relationship-building skill for fundraisers. Participants will learn a simple framework for starting genuine conversations, building trust and creating meaningful connections with donors, partners and community members. 

Hiram Soto, Marketing and Communications Director at SDF, will talk about the importance of small talk as a skill that can be used by anyone to build trust, regardless of whether they are introverted or extroverted or somewhere in between. He will introduce practical techniques for authentic conversation using the OASC approach — Observe, Ask, Share and Connect — a method that helps people move beyond surface-level chatter and build real connection. He will also discuss body language and how they place a factor in effective communications and building trust. 

Jeff Spitko, Senior Director of Integrated Fundraising at SDF, will then share how these same skills translate directly into successful fundraising relationships. Drawing from real-world donor engagement experience, he will demonstrate how small talk can open the door to deeper conversations, trust and long-term donor partnerships. 

Participants will leave with practical tools they can use immediately in donor meetings, networking events and everyday interactions.