You're managing volunteer project deadlines. How can you ensure stakeholders' expectations are realistic?
Managing volunteer project deadlines requires a delicate balance of realism and optimism. When you're at the helm, your primary job is to ensure that everyone involved has a clear understanding of what can be accomplished and by when. This means setting expectations from the get-go and maintaining open lines of communication throughout the project. It's essential to remember that volunteers are offering their time and skills without financial compensation, so their commitment levels can vary. Your role involves respecting their contributions while gently steering the project towards its deadline, ensuring that stakeholders' expectations align with what your team can feasibly deliver.