I recently spent some time with a non-profit CEO who spoke about the importance of volunteers to an organization. He said that of all the things someone can give you — time, talent or treasure — time is the one thing that cannot be replenished.
One can make more money. Talent doesn’t wear out. But time…time once spent is gone.
Time is the most valuable thing a man can spend. ~ Laertius Diogenes, Biographer of the Greek philosophers
There’s nothing worse than showing up as a volunteer and feeling like you’ve wasted your time. From disorganization to lack of clarity, there are a number of things that can go wrong when you manage and engage your volunteers.
Whether for special events or programs or board or fundraising here are a few ways you can ensure your volunteers feel like the time they’ve spent with you is worth it:
- Learn why they want to volunteer. What do they hope to get out of this experience? What motivates them? If you understand why they are volunteering, you can better help them feel fulfilled in this experience.
- Be clear with your expectations. Much like we all need a job description or set of performance goals at work, your volunteers need to know what you need them to do to help fulfill the mission of your organization. Help them understand what you need and how they – specifically – can help. They also must understand the time commitment you are expecting so they know what they are agreeing to before they start.
- Tap into their expertise. Your volunteers each bring a unique set of talents and knowledge to your organization. They will feel most useful if they know they are playing a special role.
- Be ready for them. When your volunteers show up, be ready to get started. A precise agenda, calm leader and clear lines of delegation show you are respectful of their time and are organized enough to make the best use of it.
- Make it enjoyable. Doing good work should feel fun and rewarding. Whether you host a fun and energetic kick-off to your annual campaign or provide a communal meal before a special event, their time should not feel like a burden.
- Make sure they know you and your team are there to support them. No volunteer should feel as if they have to go it alone or have no one to turn to if they have trouble. Regular emails and reassuring phone calls let them know you are never far away.
- Tell them how their work is impacting the organization. Volunteers want to know their work and time will make a difference. Tell them how they are making a difference in the work you are doing in the community.
- Show your gratitude. Your volunteers have given you their precious free time, working for you rather than spending time with family or relaxing on the weekend. Make sure they know they are appreciated. Personal notes, public recognition and a special token of appreciation will go a long way to tell them you need them and value the time they have chosen to give to you.
- Ask them to volunteer again. As Jonas Salk said, “The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.”
Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in. ~Author Unknown
