It may seem supremely obvious but getting someone's name right is the first step in building a relationship with them. Getting the name right isn't necessarily going to increase the size of their donation but getting it wrong will certainly impact on your fundraising success.
Checking details like the spelling of the name, the address, the postcode etc will pay dividends if you do it systematically. Every time you have someone on the phone, check their details, correct them if necessary and read back the changes to your supporter to confirm.
Don't presume that a simple sounding name is a given. I've seen all sorts of strange spellings for the simplest of names. You will also want to check preferred names. People change around their first and second names and many people claim to know when a list has been shared around - their real name features in the mailing address, not the preferred name. Watch out for shortened versions of names. Rod instead of Roderick for example. Double check with your supporter that this is the preferred version. I once worked with Dr Roderick Deane and everyone in the company knew that you should call him Roderick. When I see him named Rod in the media I cringe. Perhaps he's changed his mind, but I would certainly check if I had him on my database.
A simple way of checking is to google names but a quick phone call is highly desirable. It makes a great impression with your supporters if you show you're taking the time to call up. For new donors you are always going to phone to thank them (it increases their giving in year two!) so while you are on the phone, double check details and preferences.
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