3 of 10

Write now Article Tools

Peter F. Drucker said, "Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things." To lead a group of volunteers, certain qualities are necessary to get the most out of your group of unpaid helpers.

ORGANIZATION SKILLS

A popular 1980's television show included the following line in each of its episodes: "I love it when a plan comes together." Before putting out the call for volunteers, a leader must have a game plan. Playing it by ear, isn't going to fly. If the one in charge has a reputation of being disorganized and irresponsible, volunteers may be leery to serve. However, if the leader has exhibited a history of skillful organization culminating in a successful event, volunteers will be much easier to secure.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

A skilled leader expresses his plan and expectation ably; he shares in such a way that volunteers have no doubt what the leader desires. After expressing his vision, the leader should confirm that the volunteers have a handle on the proposed agenda by asking them questions. Any uncertainties that the volunteer team has can be addressed at this time.

MOTIVATIONAL SKILLS

A skilled leader should be passionate. A volunteer's fire will burn only as hot as the fuel driving the leader. Keep in mind, in settings where a manager and employees are working towards a goal, money may be the driving force. In directing a group of volunteers, the leader must help everyone on his team catch the vision and promote its merits. The leader must help the volunteers envision the outcome. He must challenge them to see the necessity of motivated work in the planning and implementing process and to visualize the harvest of fruitful labor. As the Bible states, "Where there is no vision the people perish." Leaders, challenge your volunteers with a vision and become their greatest cheerleaders. "The very essence of leadership is that you have to have vision. You can't blow an uncertain trumpet." Theodore M. Hesburgh

DELEGATION SKILLS

Robert Half commented, "Delegating work works, provided the one delegating works, too." Leaders must remember to utilize volunteers; no one should ever expect the leader to be Superman or Wonder Woman. Volunteers volunteer to help. When they are not used, both the leader and volunteers miss out in the joy of serving. However, the leader must never take advantage of the persons serving under their own volition. A leader should exhibit a strong work ethic, and then enlist others to jump in, roll up their sleeves and get the job done.

Taking on the role of leadership is not an easy undertaking. However, displaying skillful leadership qualities will encourage volunteers to take the plunge, diving in to help accomplish what the leader would not dare attempt on his own.

Learn more about this author, Bryan Ridenour.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The skills required for leading volunteers?
We want to hear your view. Write now!