Glossary
Contact Management

Communication Preference

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
July 2, 2025

Definition:

A communication preference specifies how and how often a contact wishes to receive information from your nonprofit.
A communication preference is the specific way an individual or organization chooses to receive information from a nonprofit, such as via email, phone calls, direct mail, or text messages. These preferences may also include the frequency and type of content recipients wish to receive, like newsletters, event invitations, or donation appeals. Properly documenting and honoring communication preferences is important for respecting contact wishes, maintaining compliance with privacy laws, and optimizing engagement. By tracking these preferences, nonprofits can personalize outreach, avoid unwanted contact, and build stronger relationships with their supporters.

Key Takeaways

  • Defines how supporters want to be contacted
  • Ensures compliance with privacy and anti-spam laws
  • Improves engagement by respecting individual preferences
  • Reduces unsubscribes and complaints

Why It Matters

Respecting communication preferences builds trust and ensures compliance with privacy regulations.

Real World Example

Imagine a donor, Jane, who prefers to receive quarterly email updates but not phone calls or text messages. By noting Jane’s communication preferences in Keela, your nonprofit ensures she only receives the information she wants, in her chosen format and frequency. This respect for her preferences not only keeps Jane informed and happy but also reduces the risk of her unsubscribing or feeling overwhelmed, ultimately strengthening her relationship with your organization.

How Keela Helps

Keela allows nonprofits to record and manage each contact’s communication preferences directly within their profiles. This ensures that all messages sent through Keela are tailored to individual supporter wishes, reducing unsubscribes and increasing engagement rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a communication preference?

A communication preference is the method and frequency by which an individual wants to receive information from your nonprofit.

Why are communication preferences important for nonprofits?

They help nonprofits respect supporter wishes, comply with privacy laws, and increase engagement by sending relevant information in the desired format.

How do I track communication preferences in Keela?

Keela allows you to record each contact’s preferred communication method and frequency directly in their profile, ensuring all outreach is tailored to their choices.

What happens if preferences aren't respected?

Ignoring preferences can lead to unsubscribes, complaints, and potential non-compliance with legal requirements.

Related Terms

A/B Test
Accessibility Compliance
Acknowledgement Letter
Address Verification
Affiliation
Archiving Historical Donor Data

Are You Ready to Grow Faster and Raise More?

TALK TO US
EXPLORE KEELA'S PLANS