In all types of communication with potential sponsors, remember that sponsors are busy professionals, so it is very important to be direct and precise in your initial contact.

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1.         Study the sponsor list in the Senior Project folder list.  The sponsors on the list have previously participated in the project, but presently may not be in a situation to participate again.  Network with parents, relatives, neighbors, and friends.  Use the Yellow Pages under your interest area.  Consider transportation needs, costs, and time in choosing a sponsor, remembering commuting time is not included in calculating total project hours.

2.         Call the potential sponsor to explain briefly the Senior Project.  Be prepared to talk initially with an administrative assistant.  Rehearse what you are going to say.  Express that you have an interest in the sponsor's area and that is why you have chosen to call.  Emphasize that the project is a mandatory volunteer program (no pay) encompassing seventy-eight (78) hours over a three-week period.  Suggest a meeting to describe fully the project, explain your interests, and to share your Senior Project goals.  Be professional, polite, and get to the point by using short sentences.  Do not use slang or improper English.

3.         In the first meeting with the potential sponsor, dress appropriately, i.e., dress as you would if you were presently working with the sponsor.  Shake hands and establish eye contact.  Relax, the worst the sponsor can do is to say that he/she cannot participate in the project at this time.  Provide the sponsor with the Sponsor Packet, which is found in the Senior Project folder.  Explain that the packet contains information detailing the duties and responsibilities of the sponsor.  Briefly review with the sponsor the following: (a) that the project is a volunteer program over a three-week period encompassing eighty-four hours; (b) that you have chosen this area based on your interest, and describe your interest; and, (c) that the project is a mandatory course for graduation, and the sponsor will contribute 25% of the grade.  In addition, it is very important to emphasize to the sponsor that you are seeking situations, which will provide a meaningful introduction to his/her profession.  Provide the sponsor with the three Senior Project goals that you have prepared.  Make certain that the goals are typed or neatly written.  Give the sponsor a reason to say yes.  Be polite, enthusiastic, and upbeat.  Describe skills that will be useful to the sponsor.  Remember you are marketing yourself.  Ask the sponsor if he/she has any questions.  If the sponsor has questions, which you cannot answer, please encourage the sponsor to call Mr. McCormick at 610.359.4200x3056, Email rmccormick@mnsd.org, or visit the Senior Project web site at http://www.mnsd.org/MNHS/index.html

4.         After a sponsor agrees to the project, send a short thank you note.

5.         Two weeks before the start of the project call the sponsor to remind him/her of the starting date and time.  Be prepared to leave a phone message.

6.         If you encounter any problems at anytime throughout the project, immediately notify me.  Direct and effective communication is the most reliable method for a successful Senior Project.  Timely communication can help prevent any adverse consequences.