Prevention is the Best Medicine: Part 1
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Guest Post by Rochelle Runge
Editor’s note: This is the first in a four part series.
When I hear people talking about “problem volunteers” and how to deal with them I immediately think of prevention. There are many ways to structure your program to prevent issues associated with problem volunteers. In my view, dealing with problem volunteers begins with writing solid volunteer position descriptions. Equally important is communication, providing quality training and orientation. These are all common components of a successful volunteer program.
A well written and targeted position description will assist you in attracting and selecting the best volunteer for the position. The description serves to inform the volunteers so they can self select based on their skills and interests. Along with effective interviewing skills, thoughtfully prepared position descriptions will help avoid problems that can arise when a volunteer is improperly placed. Often a problem volunteer is a volunteer who is in the wrong position.
Some questions you should ask yourself before writing a volunteer position description:
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How will the volunteer be used within the organization?
Why do you need a volunteer?
What are you expecting of the volunteer?
Who will manage the volunteer?
Be sure to include these key elements as well:
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Position/Title
Goal of position
Worksite
Major duties
Length of commitment
Qualifications sought
Training required/provided
Prerequisites/skills
Supervisor/Point of Contact
Travel required
Benefits to the volunteer
As you write your position description consider using action words to get your point across succinctly. Try to use short sentences and bullet points that convey specifically what you’re looking for, for example:
• Records minutes at each meeting and provides printed copies within two weeks to board members with minimum errors.
The position description is one of the first things a potential volunteer may encounter with respect to your program. It needs to be professional, enticing, and thoughtfully prepared. When a position description is specific it conveys clear expectations, which is another form of prevention. Like employees, volunteers need to know what is expected of them in order to perform and be successful!
Rochelle Runge is the Public Relations Representative for the Maine Commission for Community Service.