Paddle Raise Etiquette - What You Need To Do As a Host

From the most common “please” and “thank you”  to the more outdated “always have a toast prepared” or a “lady should only have one glass of champagne”, each era has its own list of etiquette rules. ”,   If this is your first time hosting a Paddle Raise, let us help you set the tone for the event so your guests feel welcome, respected, and valued. This, in turn, can encourage their generosity and enthusiasm in supporting your cause.

Let's discuss how you, as a host, can use proper etiquette to ensure your paddle raise event is successful and memorable for all the right reasons.

1. Preparation Etiquette

Dress Code

As the host of a paddle raise, you must first dress appropriately to show respect and professionalism.

Choose business or business casual attire, depending on the formality of your event. 

Pick neutral colors such as navy, black, or gray, which convey seriousness and professionalism. Avoid overly bright colors like neon shades, which can be distracting and seem less formal. 

Women can consider a business suit or a conservative dress, and men might wear a suit and tie.  

Wearing the right outfit increases your credibility and sets a tone of respect. It signals to the attendees that the event is significant and their contributions are highly valued. 

Remember, your attire reflects the importance of the occasion and encourages guests to take the fundraising efforts more seriously.

Setting the Stage

The success of your paddle raise fundraising depends heavily on the venue arrangements. Here are ways to ensure visibility and comfort for all guests.

• Visibility: Organize the seating so everyone has a clear view of the stage and any screens showing information about the fundraising goals. When guests can see what’s happening without obstruction, they're more likely to stay engaged and participate actively in the event.
• Comfort: Make sure the venue is comfortable for all attendees, providing enough space and seating. A comfortable setting keeps guests focused and willing to participate throughout the event. Plan the layout to avoid crowded areas, particularly around high-traffic spots like the stage or restrooms.
• Audiovisuals: Effective lighting and sound are essential for maintaining your audience's attention. Ensure the host, speakers, or entertainers are easily visible and audible from every part of the venue. Always test your audiovisual equipment before the event to prevent any technical difficulties that could disrupt the experience.

2. During the Paddle Raise

Presentation Etiquette

Your presentation matters a lot, especially when you are hosting a paddle raise. Speak clearly and confidently to demonstrate the importance of the cause and the impact of donations. 

Stand with an open posture to appear approachable and welcoming. 

When using your paddle, demonstrate how to use it for bids or donations by holding it high and visibly. Set a clear example for the guests and encourage them to participate.

Interacting with Guests

Respectful and engaging interactions with guests are key to a successful paddle raise. 

Make eye contact, listen actively, and address any questions or concerns they might have. To show appreciation for their presence and contributions, explain how each donation makes a difference. 

Always try to set a clear example for the guests and encourage them to participate.

Announcing Donation Levels

Presenting different giving levels requires a careful balance. 

Introduce various giving levels by explaining the impact of different donation amounts. Help guests understand how their contributions will be used. 

To ensure everyone can participate, offer a range of levels to accommodate different financial abilities. This will create an inclusive atmosphere where guests feel valued, regardless of the amount they choose to give. 

Highlight the success of reaching each donation tier during the event to motivate others to contribute.

3. Acknowledgment Etiquette

Recognizing Donations

It's important to recognize donations gracefully and respectfully. Acknowledge each donation with sincere gratitude. 

For example, you could announce, “Thank you, John, for your generous $500 contribution!” 

This not only shows appreciation but also encourages others to donate. However, be mindful of the donor’s privacy preferences. 

Some donors may prefer to remain anonymous, so ensure you have their permission before publicly acknowledging their contribution. A simple, heartfelt thank you can go a long way in making donors feel valued and appreciated.

Handling No Donations

It's possible that certain donation levels might not receive any contributions. When this happens, maintain a positive and encouraging demeanor.  

Avoid showing disappointment or frustration. Instead, smoothly transition to the next donation level with enthusiasm. 

For example, if no one donates at the $1,000 level, you could say, “Let’s see if we have any generous supporters at the $750 level!” 

Keep the momentum going and avoid any awkwardness. The key is to keep the energy up and continue to engage the audience positively.

4. Conclusion and Follow-Up Etiquette

Thanking Attendees

Ending your paddle raise effectively maintains the event's momentum and ensures maximum participation. 

One effective method is to use a "paddle sweep," which gives donors one last opportunity to contribute. As you near the conclusion, announce the final chance to donate, emphasizing the impact and urgency of their contributions. 

Expressing gratitude to your attendees at the end of the paddle raise is equally important. Start by thanking everyone collectively during your closing remarks. A heartfelt thank-you message can leave a lasting impression. 

For example, you might say, "Thank you all for your incredible generosity tonight. Your support is truly making a difference."