Do you find yourself hating to ask for donations no matter how worthy your cause? You are not alone. Fear of asking is a stumbling block many charitable organizations - and fundraisers - have to deal with on a daily basis. At bottom, it is the very human fear of rejection, something every one of us has experienced. If it is not overcome, it can really affect the bottom line. Here are some tips to conquer this fear.

1. Do not perceive asking for donations as "begging".

Begging means soliciting money with no hope of return. Remind yourself that you are offering prospects an opportunity to invest in their community, help others improve their lives, and do some good for the world at large. This, along with the satisfaction of contributing to the betterment of others, is a very large return indeed.

2) Think of what might happen to your organization if you do not ask.

Nonprofit organizations run on charitable donations. Is your fear of asking greater than your desire to see your organization continue or your cause succeed?

3) Know that a great many people actually want to be asked.

Often people believe in your cause and are willing to support it. However, they need to be asked in order to give and may actually be upset if they perceive that you do not want their help. If your organization fails, sympathetic people will want to know why you did not turn to them in a time of trouble.

4) Believe in your cause.

You are not asking money for your personal use. The money you collect will save more abused animals, support after-school programs, buy desperately-needed medical equipment or help dig life-giving wells on the other side of the planet. Your belief will shine through and your fears will melt away when you realize the cause is doing the talking, not you.

5) Don't take rejection personally.

There are many reasons people do not give and they have nothing to do with you. Prospects may be unable financially, they may be in the wrong mood, they may not believe in your cause, especially if you are involved in political or religious fundraising. Just smile politely and move on.

If you follow these few simple guidelines and you lose that nervous dread, learn to ask with confidence, and see more donations flowing in where they are needed most.