229 | Does fundraising need more curious chameleons?

229 | Does fundraising need more curious chameleons?

The Fundraising Talent Podcast, a production of Responsive Fundraising

I am embarrassed to admit that in our more than 200 broadcasts we have yet to discuss EAB’s curious chameleon study, despite my appreciation for it. For this reason, I was delighted to hear that Robert wanted to explore the enduring relevance of this study now a decade after its initial release. For those unfamiliar with it, EAB’s curious chameleon study sought to identify and characterize the elusive high performing major gift officer in today’s competitive job market.

But, before we dived into the study, I was grateful for Robert’s willingness to share about his professional journey and how his training in law has become aligned with his passion for fundraising. Robert has found fundraising to be very meaningful work. Robert shared with us that it’s been in those instances where he has been able to be a curious chameleon that he has found his work most rewarding. The two of us wrapped up on the question of whether we expect our supervisors and colleagues to be similarly curious and adaptive and whether the chameleon posture is particularly suited for our complex and messy world. 

We are grateful to our friends at CueBack for sponsoring our podcast. Later this week we’re talking to Laura Calandrella about her new book, Our Next Evolution.

As always, we are grateful to CueBack for sponsoring The Fundraising Talent Podcast.