Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Practice Test

Who should be asked to help rate the prospects for fundraising?

1. Individuals with a general understanding of fundraising

2. Persons who know the majority of prospects well

3. Volunteer staff with minimal training

4. External consultants with fundraising experience

The correct answer is: Persons who know the majority of prospects well

The ideal choice for rating prospects for fundraising is individuals who are well-acquainted with the majority of the prospects. These individuals possess valuable insights into the prospects' interests, philanthropic history, financial capacity, and motivations. Their familiarity allows for a more nuanced understanding of each prospect's potential for giving, which is critical in developing tailored strategies for engagement. Engaging those who know the prospects well ensures that the ratings reflect not just general characteristics but also specific, personal knowledge that can facilitate meaningful conversations and connections. This approach enhances the likelihood of successful fundraising efforts, as it relies on informed assessments rather than superficial analyses based on limited information. While individuals with a general understanding of fundraising and experienced external consultants can provide useful guidance, they may lack the intimate knowledge of the prospects that is necessary for accurate rating. Similarly, volunteer staff with minimal training may not have the expertise or insight needed to make informed evaluations, leading to potentially less effective strategies. Thus, those with personal knowledge of the prospects stand out as the most valuable resource for accurately rating fundraising potential.