Question: those Surveys about Issues

[Viki63]

I’m kind of naive, so thought I’d ask what others think: I often get surveys in the mail asking my opinion, as a prolife supporter, or “among a select group of GOP grassroots leaders” (which I’m not - I’m independent) asking for my opinion about various issues, and of course.at the end asking for donations for these urgent causes.
Is it worthwhile filling out these surveys? Does anyone actually care what we say in them? Or are they just out for donations?
While I’m asking, what about those letters containing money - a nickel, even a dollar - asking us to return it for the poor, the handicapped, etc. I figure if the organization has money to send me, they don’t need my contribution. Am I right?

 

[Nelka]

I’m kind of naive, so thought I’d ask what others think: I often get surveys in the mail asking my opinion, as a prolife supporter, or “among a select group of GOP grassroots leaders” (which I’m not - I’m independent) asking for my opinion about various issues, and of course.at the end asking for donations for these urgent causes.
Is it worthwhile filling out these surveys? Does anyone actually care what we say in them? Or are they just out for donations?

I normally get surveys about my doctors surgery or which supermarkets I use.

I’ve never known one asking for donations.

While I’m asking, what about those letters containing money - a nickel, even a dollar - asking us to return it for the poor, the handicapped, etc. I figure if the organization has money to send me, they don’t need my contribution. Am I right?

I would better ignore these and choose a great charity yourself and stick with that one.

Too many “charities” either aren’t charities or only give a small percentage to where they say it is going.

 

[po18guy]

It seems like each and every “survey” I receive in the mail is merely a ruse that is used as a plea for money. The questions are often inane and the choices given usually go something like “Should the elderly receive property tax breaks or should they be relocated to government camps?” They are non-scientific and the results, even if tabulated, are at best a very rough gauge of popular opinion. If the organization or political candidate is something or someone I agree with, then I consider donating. It has been quite some time since I bothered to fill one out.

 

[JRKH]

I agree with PoGuy -
From an actual “survey” standpoint (data gathering for statistical analysis) they abysmally structured and amount to nothing more than a “sales tool”. In truth - they don’t even actually say what the candidate or group supports…
I started filling out a couple some years back but quickly realized what was up…(gimme da’ money) and tossed them in the trash.

Peace
James

 

[Dale_M]

Is it worthwhile filling out these surveys? Does anyone actually care what we say in them? Or are they just out for donations?

They are a fundraising tool. The survey technique is used for two reasons. Some people might think their “voice will be heard” they make a contribution, which makes them more likely to donate. But the big reason is that the survey provides information about your interests so that a profile about you can be built. If you respond with a donation, and indicate interests you consider important, the mailer will target you for additional requests for contributions based on those issues. Be aware that organizations often sell their mailing lists to other organizations. Those third parties are particularly interested in knowing who is willing to donate and what appeals will gain that contribution.

While I’m asking, what about those letters containing money - a nickel, even a dollar - asking us to return it for the poor, the handicapped, etc. I figure if the organization has money to send me, they don’t need my contribution.

I am not familiar with that approach, but wonder if they aren’t “fishing.” The token sum of money is the bait, and they want to see if you will nibble. If you respond, then they know they have a chance at landing a real contribution from you and will continue their efforts.

 

[Scott_Lafrance]

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