A while back we discussed the benefits of Realistic Job Previews.  Well not everyone works in industry and hires employees.  Sometimes what we really need to do is bring in volunteers.  This is the case for churches, political campaigns, community outreach and a wide variety of other activities.

As anyone who’s lead volunteers knows, one of the hardest things to do is keep them motivated and committed.  Part of this challenge comes from the volunteers themselves.  They lead busy, hectic lives with wives, boyfriends, kids, friends, work etc….  Sometimes the last thing they can fit into their schedule is volunteering.

But lets face it, it’s not always the volunteer’s problem, is it?  Sometimes we promise volunteers amazing experiences, life changing encounters, and even high levels of recognition.  What do you think happens when we don’t deliver on those promises?

They leave or become disillusioned.  What was once an awesome volunteer suddenly becomes someone who doesn’t show up when promised.

One way of fixing this is through the use of Realistic Job Previews.  Obviously the volunteer position isn’t a formal job.  But that doesn’t mean we can’t apply some of those same principles we would in a business-setting.  In fact, because it’s an informal position we need to make sure we do everything we can to make it easy on our volunteers.  Some volunteers put in as much time as a staff member.  We owe it to them to give a realistic view as to what’s going to happen.

So here are a few steps you can take to use Realistic Job Previews with volunteer positions:

1. Identify what tasks and skills are needed for a position. Do they need to be able to write?  To speak?  To make phone calls?
2. Be honest about what is most important in the job. You need to identify the critical skills for the position.  This needs to be done for their sake, as well as yours.
3. Have a conversation with them. Don’t send a form letter.  Realistic Job Previews don’t have to be fancy and formal.  Just talk to them.
4. When you ask them to join in the volunteer effort, make sure they understand what they are signing on for. Give them the good and bad again.
5. Talk about other possible opportunities. Will this lead to a job?  Will you be able to do other volunteer projects?  Will you get to meet someone famous, interesting, or important?  Will you receive public recognition?

Most volunteers are there because they are committed to the same ideas you are.  They want to help you succeed.  And they want to help you do it for free!  The very least we can do is give them a clear view of what their role will be.

photo provided by flickr