How can you ensure volunteers have the information they need to be successful?

2 Provide training

Training is essential for ensuring that your volunteers have the knowledge and skills to perform their tasks confidently and competently. Depending on the nature and complexity of your program, you may need to provide different types of training, such as orientation, technical, safety, or cultural. Use a variety of methods, such as videos, manuals, webinars, or workshops, to suit different learning styles and preferences. Make sure your training is accessible, engaging, and relevant, and that you evaluate its effectiveness and impact.

3 Communicate regularly

Regular communication is key for keeping your volunteers informed, motivated, and connected. Use multiple channels, such as email, phone, social media, or newsletters, to communicate with your volunteers and update them on your program progress, achievements, challenges, and opportunities. Encourage your volunteers to communicate with you and each other, and to share their feedback, questions, concerns, and ideas. Establish a clear and consistent communication schedule and protocol, and make sure you respond to your volunteers promptly and respectfully.

6 Review and improve

Reviewing and improving your volunteer information processes is an ongoing and essential part of your program development. Monitor and measure your volunteer information processes using indicators such as volunteer retention, satisfaction, performance, and impact. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of your volunteer information processes, and seek feedback from your volunteers, staff, partners, and beneficiaries on how to improve them. Implement changes and improvements based on the feedback and data you collect, and communicate them to your volunteers and stakeholders.

7 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?