If you have ever met David Mersky or Michael Jaffe, you know that the principals of the firm have many skills. And as an associate of the firm, I like to think we associates bring our own areas of expertise to the table. Those cumulative skills include an understanding that the executive … [Read more...]
Welcome to the new Mersky, Jaffe & Associates site
June 1, 2010 By
We have changed more than just the look! Yes, you can still learn about the firm, our thinking and processes and see open executive search postings. In addition: We have converted all of the articles in our archive to blog posts. That means YOU can leave comments and questions on the … [Read more...]
Why This Article Will Not Improve Your Nonprofit
October 2, 2009 By
Do you know that feeling you get when you read something that is so true for you, that you find yourself nodding your head up and down in agreement? I just had that feeling recently, although I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that it had to do with my life as a consultant. Mark Satterfield, of Gentle … [Read more...]
Why You Can’t Afford Not To Hire Me
June 13, 2009 By
The other day, as David Mersky and I were walking out of a new business meeting, he asked me how I thought it went. I said the organization desperately needs us, but I can't see how someone with less than a $1,000,000 annual budget will justify consultant fees to their board. We know we can increase … [Read more...]
Hiring A Development Consultant Sooner Rather Than Later
January 13, 2008 By
If you have been following the past few years of Resources: The MJA Newsletter, you will know that campaigns start long before the first ask. But, before you go at it alone consider the following thoughts. Nonprofit development consultants can be hired at a variety of stages in a … [Read more...]
Q. I know an organization that used a fundraising consultant and didn’t have success. How can you guarantee that we will be successful if we use your firm?
September 24, 2005 By
A. We are unable to guarantee success because that depends on the commitment of you and your leadership to the process. Clients who listen to our counsel, take it to heart and follow through -- in keeping with their own, unique organizational culture– will be successful. We strive to inform and … [Read more...]
How to Choose a Fundraising Consultant
April 17, 2005 By
Go online. Call other nonprofits. Check the phone book. Assuming you have already determined you need counsel, these are easy ways to find the names of consultant. It may not be the same path to help as the nonprofit down the street or a comparable organization across town. The only way to really … [Read more...]
Q. I would love to work with MJA. Would you take a percentage of monies raised as compensation?
April 2, 2005 By
A. While this may seem like the perfect solution to paying a consultant, it is actually destructive for all involved. The primary goal of a consultant should match your goals, not his or her own short-term financial gain. We work with each of our … [Read more...]
What Makes MJA Different – a Bit of Self-Promotion
April 2, 2005 By
As organizations begin the search for a consultant it may, at first glance, seem like most consultants are saying the same things. “We can help you raise money,” “We can help you work with your donors and expand your donor base” or “We can train your solicitors and show you how to … [Read more...]
Why MJA?
January 2, 2004 By
There are a multitude of benefits of engaging Mersky, Jaffe & Associates as counsel. We have a great deal of experience that makes our services comprehensive. We know prospect research, direct mail, personal solicitation, board enhancement, and volunteer training. We are also cost effective. As … [Read more...]