But if you don't call the parents who have issues, will they feel like they're being singled out as "problems"? Possibly, making the wound they are feeling even deeper. So, you can take one of two approaches. Have an administrative team member, who is fully briefed on the situation that caused the friction, call the disgruntled parent. That provides an additional caring touch, and an opportunity to follow up on the situation—as well a chance to ask for support. Or, you can include the disgruntled parent in mail solicitations, but not phone contacts.
This is a difficult call that you must make based on the situation and your school culture. What's important is that you make the disgruntled parents feel like you have an interest in their issues, and that you provide the volunteer caller with the best possible experience.
ISM has free resources online to help you conduct a quality, successful phonathon. Check these out:
Share Your Accomplishments and Experiences During Your Phonathon for Maximum Impact
Support Your Phonathon Volunteers With a Script That Works
In the ISM Bookstore, our Development Collection series covers key development theory, annual fund, planned giving endowment, volunteers, and more. Free for ISM Consortium members, non-Consortium members pay just $20-$50 depending on the collection. Check them out here.
In the CASE Bookstore, you can find The Phonathon Manager's Planning Handbook: Dailing in the Details for Success for $55.95 or $41.95 for CASE members.
Stories From ISM's Other e-Letters
