
Photo illustration: Axios Visuals. Photo: Paradise Advertising and Marketing
Michelle Yepez is all about putting people before dollar signs.
State of play: Yepez was named director of development last month for Tampa Bay Watch, a nonprofit focused on fostering a healthy Tampa Bay watershed.
- She oversees the organization's corporate and community philanthropy initiatives through growth in fundraising, donor relations and collaborations.
We asked for her best advice on finessing a major deal. When the stakes are high, how do you bring two sides together?
- 💼 "Preparation is key. Neither side likes a deal shrouded in mystery. By doing homework about the potential partner and conducting research in advance to understand the factors impacting the negotiation, you'll save yourself from unnecessary embarrassment."
- 🗣 "Speak your truth, but be gentle and kind. Generally a supporter already knows the broad mission of an organization before they agree to sit at the table. Don’t assume what their position might be on a topic, ask instead. Funders and partners are hungry for facts and want to know their company or personal values are being recognized."
- 🤝 "Say thank you. And mean it. Soft skills coupled with a genuine spirit of gratitude go a very long way. Fruitful partnerships are built on strong relationships and successful negotiation harbors trust — these in turn can open the door for continued partnerships and bigger deals down the line."

Get more local stories in your inbox with Axios Tampa Bay.
More Tampa Bay stories
No stories could be found

Get a free daily digest of the most important news in your backyard with Axios Tampa Bay.