What's the best way to keep volunteers happy and engaged?

1 Recruit strategically

The first step to keeping volunteers happy and engaged is to recruit them strategically. This means finding the right fit between your organization's mission, goals, and needs, and the volunteers' interests, skills, and availability. You can use various channels to reach out to potential volunteers, such as social media, word-of-mouth, online platforms, or events. But make sure you have a clear and compelling message that explains what your organization does, why it matters, and what you expect from your volunteers. You should also have a screening and orientation process that helps you select and onboard the best candidates for your roles.

2 Communicate regularly

Communication is essential for maintaining a strong relationship with your volunteers and ensuring they are kept informed, motivated, and supported. You should communicate with your volunteers regularly, utilizing a variety of methods and formats such as emails, newsletters, phone calls, meetings, or feedback surveys. Additionally, you should tailor your communication to their preferences, needs, and personalities - for instance, some may prefer more frequent and informal check-ins while others may appreciate more structured and formal updates. The primary objectives of your communication should be to share your organization's vision, values, and accomplishments; recognize and appreciate your volunteers' contributions and impact; provide clear and consistent instructions, expectations, and feedback; address any questions or issues that arise; encourage and facilitate collaboration among volunteers; and solicit and incorporate their ideas, opinions, and feedback.

3 Train and develop

To keep your volunteers happy and engaged, it is important to provide them with opportunities to learn and grow. You can do this by offering adequate training and support, identifying and nurturing their talents and potential, and helping them develop new skills and competencies. Additionally, you should create and update a volunteer handbook that outlines your policies, procedures, and best practices. Consider organizing workshops, webinars, or courses on topics related to your organization's work or your volunteers' interests. Assigning mentors, coaches, or buddies to guide and assist them can also be beneficial. Furthermore, giving your volunteers challenging and meaningful assignments that match their skills and goals may help them stay engaged. Finally, you should encourage your volunteers to take on leadership roles or responsibilities within your organization or project.

4 Reward and retain

Finally, you should reward and retain your volunteers by showing them how much you value and appreciate their efforts and achievements. You can thank them often and sincerely, in person or in writing. Give them certificates, badges, or tokens of appreciation. Feature their stories, testimonials, or photos on your website, newsletter, or social media. Invite them to events, parties, or outings that foster fun and camaraderie. Offer discounts, vouchers, or memberships to your organization's services or partners. Provide references, recommendations, or endorsements for their future endeavors. This will not only benefit your organization and cause but also your volunteers themselves. By following these tips, you can create a positive and rewarding volunteer experience that fosters trust, respect, and mutual support. You can also build a loyal and committed volunteer team that shares your vision and values, contributing to your organization's success and impact.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?