Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Practice Test

Which fundraising method is considered most effective for engaging a prospect?

1. A direct mail campaign

2. A visit by a peer, accompanied by a fundraising professional

3. An email outreach strategy

4. A social media advertising campaign

The correct answer is: A visit by a peer, accompanied by a fundraising professional

A visit by a peer, accompanied by a fundraising professional, is widely recognized as the most effective method for engaging a prospect in fundraising. This approach leverages the power of personal connections and establishes a sense of trust and authenticity that is essential in building relationships with potential donors. By having a peer reach out, it normalizes the interaction and can create an immediate rapport, making the prospective donor feel more comfortable and valued. When accompanied by a trained fundraising professional, the meeting can have a dual purpose: fostering a meaningful conversation and addressing specific fundraising goals or intentions effectively. In contrast, direct mail campaigns can reach a broad audience but often lack the personal touch required to deeply engage prospects. Email outreach, while efficient and cost-effective, may sometimes fail to capture attention amidst the myriad of other messages individuals receive daily; it can become easily overlooked. Social media advertising can generate interest but often does not provide the depth of interaction required for a meaningful engagement, as it typically leads to more superficial connections rather than tangible relationships. Therefore, the personalized approach of a peer visit, combined with professional support, stands out as the most effective method for engaging potential donors.