Engaged Volunteers are excited about what they do and volunteer more often. Volunteers need to know that what they do adds value, helps fulfill the mission and that they make a difference. Developing a strong community of volunteers that runs smoothly can be challenging, try following these 5 Tips to help you refine your volunteer strategy.
5 Practical Tips for Engaging Your Volunteers
1. Mission
Volunteers do what they do because they believe in the mission. Therefore, share your mission and vision statement with volunteers often. Volunteers who are emotionally attached to a mission, believe in what they do, and are loyal and committed.
2. Communication
Consistent communication will help to keep volunteers engaged. Volunteers want to know what they can do to contribute to the mission’s success. Online communication can be a cost effective way to deliver storytelling, imagery and more emotional language.
3. Share
Providing key information and performance data can help volunteers see the big picture and feel more involved. Give the volunteers their responsibilities and what is expected of them in a detailed volunteer job description as well as the training and tools to perform their job.
4. Team
Create a Team environment. How well volunteers know each other, interact and participate on a team can influence the amount of engagement amongst volunteers. Networking events and online social groups can help to build a stronger community.
5. Recognition
Send a consistent message of gratitude to volunteers. Cards, thank you emails, phone calls and awards show volunteers that they have a valued part in the organization. Keep in touch on a regular bases and remember that volunteers perspectives, wants, needs and interest can change over time.
