GIVING BACK OFFERS REWARDS FOR MANY

Volunteer recruitment efforts take on a variety of forms across organizations. Some recruitment efforts are successful while others are not. What makes the difference in your ability to attract and retain qualified, motivated individuals as volunteer contributors to your organization?

There are multiple factors associated with volunteer recruitment. Since volunteers are not paid for the time they spend working for you, they need to have a vested interest in your organization and receive some type of recognition or reward that makes them feel valued and appreciated.

WHAT DO WE NEED AND WHO CAN DO IT?

Before you begin your recruitment efforts, there are five (5) key questions you need to answer about your organization.

1. What do we need to be done? Clearly define the nature of the job but remember that volunteers also want some flexibility in their work.
2. Who do we need to do this job? This entails an evaluation of skills or knowledge required, prior experience needed, and other things which will enable them to effectively perform the work.
3. What would motivate them and how do we reward them? Determine what makes someone want to volunteer for your organization and how you can respond to that need. Identify how they will be rewarded and include that in your recruitment plan.
4. How do we reach them? Identify methods of communication and promotion to solicit volunteers and bring them into your company. Flyers, mailers, and open houses are examples of how to reach them.
5. What are our goals and expectations for volunteers? Clearly define these things for the potential volunteer so you can ensure a good match for your organization.

MARKETING AND PROMOTION IS KEY

Once you have answered these questions, you are ready to begin development of your marketing campaign. There are two key messages you want to convey to potential volunteers.

First, you need to give them a compelling reason to want to volunteer for your company. You need to clearly define your organization's mission and why it is essential to the community.

Next, you need to emphasize the value to the volunteer and what they can gain from the experience. Some of the obvious reasons include the ability to give back to the community and the intrinsic value of being a volunteer. But just as important to them, what can they personally gain from the experience. Will they learn new skills or gain valuable experience in a specific area? Delineate

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about How to more effectively recruit volunteers?
We want to hear your view. Write now!