Imagine a child born into the digital age, seamlessly swiping through an array of touchscreens, from iPads to Android tablets, with instinctive ease. This child, a digital native, navigates various interfaces effortlessly, unaffected by the differences that often perplex those of us who witnessed the gradual evolution of these technologies. Just as this early exposure creates a digitally-fluent child, early immersion in specific professional tools and methods can sculpt more proficient and adaptable professionals.
At EverTrue, we’ve observed a parallel in the realm of fundraising through our pioneering of Donor Experience Officers (DXO) programs that have become commonplace throughout nonprofit work. Dubbed “Cadence Natives,” these DXO fundraisers have been groomed from the outset in environments defined by our next-generation cadence-based software platform. This foundational experience has not only enhanced their skills but also prepared them to excel dramatically in more advanced roles as Major Gift Officers (MGOs).
A Comparative Study
EverTrue’s recent study dives deep into the comparative performance of Cadence Natives against their peers who ascended to the role of MGO without the benefit of specialized cadence-based training. The findings are telling—Cadence Natives logged four times the number of interactions and secured 2.7 times the number of donor meetings within their first six months in role. These numbers aren’t just statistics; they are a testament to the proficiency and preparedness instilled by early and consistent exposure to advanced fundraising tools.
The DXO to MGO Transition: A Clear Trajectory of Success
The transition from a DXO, handling mid-level donors typically giving between $250 to $10,000, to an MGO focusing on securing major gifts upward of $50,000, is substantial. Yet, our Cadence Natives make this leap with remarkable success, underscoring the effectiveness of their foundational training.
It is already evident that the next generation of fundraisers will be significantly more adept at their craft if their entire career is sculpted within a cadence-based system. They’re not just learning to fundraise; they are mastering an art form defined by the rhythm of regular, structured interactions and engagements.
These professionals avoid the need to unlearn outdated methods and benchmarks that often stymie more seasoned fundraisers by embracing cadence-based tools from the onset. Instead, they thrive in a dynamic, data-rich environment where success is not just about meeting quotas but about building meaningful, lasting connections with donors.
The Future of Fundraising is Here
As EverTrue continues to lead the charge with innovations like Signal, the first-ever donor experience platform, the success of our Cadence Natives is a powerful indicator of the potential within our sector to evolve and excel. For those of us in advancement, it’s an exciting time to be at the forefront of a shift that is not merely changing how we work—it’s redefining the very benchmarks of success in our field.