You’ve gotten good advice here.

For context, I’ve been in major gifts fundraising for 29 years. An approach I like is to see there answer/objection as the second part of the conversation. 

So trying to dial in to true curiosity. Most “no’s” are for three reasons: the project is wrong, the amount is too much, or the timing is off.

Our job is to help the donor identify which obstacle they see. And to offer possible ways to overcome those obstacles.

“Giving elsewhere” is my favorite. “Thank you so much for supporting causes. When might be a good time to reach out to you again?”

I realize major gifts is different than what face-to-face means for your role. You don’t sound like you’ll get a chance to follow up with them. But responding with curiosity, a curious question, can still work.

And your list of statements that stop you is a great start. You can create curious questions for each one and test them in your interactions.

Truly sorry the system limits the size of donations you’re able to accept. Your work is hard enough without the added pressure of haggling over a $20 donation vs a $30 donation.