Activating the Alumni Community with Smart CRM Solutions-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session, hosted by Andreas Ehrmann, featured three experts from Erasmus University Rotterdam—Han Hu, Simon Pau, and Bruno Haser—discussing how to activate and engage alumni communities using smart CRM solutions. Erasmus University maintains a centralized alumni database using Microsoft Dynamics 365, integrating data from multiple sources to provide rich insights for targeted engagement. Their approach includes segmented communications, automated email journeys, and a focus on volunteering, mentoring, career support, and fundraising initiatives such as annual giving and crowdfunding.<br /><br />Real-life examples highlighted the efficiency of automated workflows in activating mentoring programs and fundraising campaigns, freeing staff time and enhancing engagement metrics like open and click rates. The team emphasized the importance of managing expectations when inviting volunteer participation and continuously updating alumni data through onboarding journeys to maintain relevance. They also noted the value of collaboration between faculties and the central team in a large, decentralized university environment.<br /><br />The experts endorsed an agile, step-by-step approach to developing CRM strategies, balancing visionary goals with manageable projects. Social media and multimedia like video testimonials are used to engage different alumni segments effectively. The session concluded with practical reflections on resource commitments, data-driven decision-making, and the importance of community building in successful alumni relations and fundraising efforts.

Keywords

Alumni Engagement

CRM Solutions

Microsoft Dynamics 365

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Automated Workflows

Mentoring Programs

Fundraising Campaigns

Data-Driven Decision Making

Community Building