Key takeaways
- Keep voicemails under 30 seconds: who you are, why you called and one easy next step.
- Say your organization's name early and clearly.
- Don't leave payment details or pressure; give a short web address instead.
Voicemail basics
- Say your name and organization in the first sentence.
- Give one reason for the call and one next step.
- Say the web address slowly. A short, memorable link works best.
- Leave at most one or two voicemails per campaign.
Five voicemail scripts
1. Thank-you
“Hi [name], this is [your name] from [organization]. No need to call back. I just wanted to say thank you for your gift. Because of you, [one result]. Have a great day.”
2. Year-end renewal
“Hi [name], this is [your name] calling for [organization] to thank you for your support and to ask you to renew this year. If you'd like to give, you can visit [short URL]. Thank you!”
3. Lapsed donor
“Hi [name], this is [your name] calling for [organization]. You supported us back in [year], and we'd love to have you back. You can see what's new and give at [short URL]. Thanks so much.”
4. Membership renewal
“Hi [name], this is [your name] from [association]. Your membership renews on [date], and I wanted to make it easy. You can renew at [short URL], or call me at [number]. Thanks for being a member.”
5. Event invitation
“Hi [name], this is [your name] from [organization]. I'm calling to invite you to [event] on [date]. I'll send the details by email, and you can register at [short URL]. Hope to see you there.”
A note on prerecorded messages
These scripts are for live callers leaving a message. Prerecorded or AI-voice messages are covered by separate federal rules, including consent requirements for many calls to cell phones. See our fundraising call rules.
How KFG helps
Kensington Fundraising Group's callers leave short, human voicemails as part of every campaign. See all our call scripts or download the free year-end donor call kit.