This article originally appeared in FuseSocial‘s September 27, 2016 newsletter.
Organizations need volunteers more then ever, and the good news is; people want to volunteer!
But volunteerism has changed and volunteer expectations have evolved. It’s no longer enough to just put out a generic “call for volunteers” and then treat them all alike when they show up. Today’s volunteers have an expectation to receive something in return for their time, talents and skills they offer. A study from JoinInUK.org sums up perfectly what volunteers are looking for in their volunteers roles.
G: Personal growth and well-being- I: Increased sense of purpose, such as knowing just how they make a difference
- V: Voice regarding how volunteers are asked to give their time
- E: Easy to sign up, to get there, and to get the job done
- R: Recognition. Being thanked, appreciated, and celebrated
- S: Social opportunities like making new friends and working in a team
In ten very straight forward steps your organization can work all these expectations into your volunteer programs.
Volunteers want and expect:
- you to be prepared for them
- to feel welcome
- good training
- to do interesting work
- to know up front the duration of their shift
- to be appreciated
- you to clearly communicate with them and often
- to know what they are helping is making the community a better place
- to be socially connected
- to learn something new
For more information on using volunteers to strengthen your organization please visit www.NGOConnect.NET
FuseSocial