Earlier this spring my friend and colleague, renowned prospect researcher Helen E. Brown, of The Helen Brown Group, and her colleague Jennifer J. Filla, published their new hardcover book Prospect Research for Fundraisers: The Essential Handbook.
I’ve found some development officers feel conducting donor research is either too time consuming or they are afraid to do it incorrectly, so they do nothing at all.
The truth is donor research is critical for building your major gifts program AND for retaining your donors; two essential components of a successful development office.
By following the steps outlined in this new handbook donor research can be simple. You are guided through the process of using research techniques to answer important questions like:
- Why do prospect research in the first place and how does it fit into my daily work?
- Do we have enough donors and prospects to reach our campaign goal?
- What is the best way to engage the donors we already have?
On Amazon, reviewer Steven P. Miller said this about the book:
“Don’t let this one stay on your “to read” list for too long or unread on your bookshelf. Jennifer Filla and Helen Brown have presented a concise book with a wealth of information. From the beginning overview to the final appendices, they tie everything to the three categories that research supports: prospect identification, qualification and relationship management. This book will provide executives, development staff and board membership with a context for how to use prospect research and with practical ways to do basic things like how to “Assess the Scope of Your Profile Needs.” For those who have been sitting on the sidelines or thinking Google search can do everything you need to those organizations that have a research program, there is something for all.”
If you’re looking to strengthen your donor retention or to begin a major gifts program, Prospect Research for Fundraisers: The Essential Handbook is a great resource to add to your tool box.
