by David Braybrooke

Created on: March 23, 2007   Last Updated: September 21, 2010

An effective volunteer must possess, above all else, a sincere passion for their work in order to successfully dedicate themselves to the cause of their choosing.  Financial reward is rarely a big factor in any voluntary position and therefore the volunteer must ensure that his or her values and goals line up with the organization that is being assisted.  To work as an effective volunteer it can also help if you have some of these essential characteristics in order to be a real asset to a working team:

*  A genuine enthusiasm in serving others.
*  A pleasant demeanor and an efficiency in communicating with others.
*  Good time-management skills and the ability to prioritize one's time.
*  Self-confidence and an awareness of one's own limitations in order not to take on too many duties.
*  Experience and professional skills that can be used to develop the voluntary organization.
*  Compassion for others, especially those living in less fortunate circumstances.
*  Good grooming and presentation skills.
*  General all-around P.R. talents, including adequate telephone manner and writing skills.

When you are working as a volunteer it is always important to remember that you are essentially a representative in the voluntary organization.  Much voluntary work is unpaid yet other types of voluntary work are reliant on funding, especially that of donations.  Where applicable, it helps to be aware of this especially when you carry out duties that are easily observed by members of the general public.  Well run departments that have a solid integrity and competent volunteers are far more likely to attract donations and support from others so in one sense a voluntary organization is similar to that of any business in that it needs to project professional standards and courtesies.

As in any line of work, when working as a volunteer it helps to have a true enthusiasm for any task undertaken and to project this in your manner and attitude to the job.  Whether one volunteers for an established business or simply assists others in this capacity, develop a sincere enjoyment for your volunteering and you shall indeed be very effective in your role.  Your enthusiasm for the voluntary work that you choose will likely attract others who will want to donate their time and talents to the cause.  Be passionate about your position and your effective volunteering should attract other volunteers.

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