Services for Churches - Stewardship

How to Choose a Capital Campaign Consultant

There are many options to consider when choosing a consultant to manage a successful capital campaign. Conferring with other pastors and congregational leaders who have conducted a capital campaign within the past five years is a good place to start. Peers can give candid insight about their experience with a firm or individual and provide recommendations. Personnel in your district or conference office may also have suggestions.

Once you have narrowed your selection, invite up to three firms or individuals to make a presentation about the capital campaign services they offer. If the person presenting is a salesperson, be sure to insist on a second interview with the consultant who will actually be on site working with your congregation. Developing a rapport with the actual consultant prior to beginning your campaign is an important factor in effective campaigns.

Consider these questions when interviewing prospective consultants:

How many years of experience do the company and consultant have to offer?
How many campaigns has the consultant conducted in churches similar in size and annual budget to yours?
Do the consultant and firm have experience working with United Methodist congregations similar to yours?
What is the consultant’s time commitment ro the campaign?
How much on-site attention can you expect from your consultant?
What will be done to prepare your church for a successful campaign (preliminary work with the pastor, staff, Building Committee and congregation)?
How will the unique aspects of your congregation be incorporated into the campaign?
What follow-up is done during the three-year giving period and is there an additional cost?
What is unique about the services of a particular firm in comparison to others?
Will the campaign be approached from a Christian perspective, particularly in the Wesleyan tradition?
Will church members be encouraged to grow as disciples during the campaign, and how will this be accomplished?
What fees are associated with the consultant’s services, and how and when will they be paid?
Are there other costs associated with the campaign such as printing, mailing, food and promotion?

Follow up conversations among your selection committee should include evaluating the consultant’s commitment to Christian stewardship and compatibility with personalities in your church. Before signing a contract, be sure the fee structure and responsibilities of both the congregation and the consultant are clearly understood.