Stepping into Prospect Management with Kelyn Klein

by | Aug 30, 2024 | Learning Edge Blog

Jennifer Filla

If you have to accomplish something really big, you break it into little pieces and get started. But what if you have to define that really big project before you can even take your first step?

This is what Kelyn Klein, Director of Prospect Research and Portfolio Management at the League of Conservation Voters, had to do. Jumping into a role that supported a major gifts team hungry for better portfolios, she needed to figure out how to make all the things happen.

Her first step? She asked permission to take a step back!

In this interview, you’ll hear how Kelyn approached the problem like it was a research project – because it was – and in true consultant style she developed a 3-year plan. Now in the third year she has implemented the plan and grown to a team of four.

Kelyn also talks about the importance of her professional network through Apra and how she began to develop the confidence to trust herself.

Build your network, too, and connect with Kelyn on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kelynklein

Resources Mentioned

Words from happy Researchers

Success Stories

I love your Master Class format – small group, clearly defined curriculum, solid professional information and resources and focus on discussion.  But most importantly I was impressed and delighted to see that you incorporated an additional and extremely practical layer of knowledge, through hands on experience with tools (pivot tables) or resources (Candid).  This adds real value to the educational experience you offer.

Betsy Mehlman

2020-Master Class

Jen’s course on insider stock and compensation was informative, interesting, and well-thought out. Jen broke down the complicated material into digestible pieces. She showed us resources that I use in my day-to-day research that I wouldn’t have otherwise known about. Jen is always quick to respond and has been helpful even after the class has ended. She answers questions thoroughly and is always pleasant.

I was able to take what I learned from the course and present the material to our front-line fundraisers. One fundraiser told me after my presentation that she discovered one of her donor’s compensation was much higher than she thought. So, already, this information has come in handy! Thanks again Jen!

Kim Anthony, San Francisco CA

Insider Stock and Compensation

The Capacity Rating Workshop was really useful. I was new to the prospect research field when I took the workshop, so it helped to demystify capacity ratings for me. The online classroom provided a great forum for interaction with the other participants and for a robust exchange of ideas. Beyond that though, Jen shared a wealth of information and resources about capacity ratings and other important aspects of prospect research. I highly recommend this workshop whether you’re new to the field or have years of experience in our profession.

David Lloyd, Prospect Research Professional, San Francisco, CA

Capacity Rating Workshop

Articles that inspire

Learning Edge

Take the Next Step

Ready to elevate your fundraising strategy? Contact us today to unlock the full potential of your prospect management.