But when we’re all busy people, how do we find these enthusiastic superstars willing to give their time, energy, and expertise? Where are they all hiding?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this post, we\u2019ll go over eight strategies and best practices for volunteer recruitment along with a few examples of rockstar recruitment messages. In the end, you’ll walk away with a solid foundation for your volunteer recruitment strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s dive in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Ask<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This first point seems obvious, but it\u2019s often overlooked. You need to actually ask people to volunteer. You may think it\u2019s self-evident that you\u2019re looking, but you\u2019d be surprised how many people in your circle don\u2019t know that you are seeking volunteers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Extend the invitation to volunteer across your communication channels with a compelling call:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Does your website include a section for prospective volunteers?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Do you regularly highlight volunteers and volunteer activities on social media? Do people who see this know they could volunteer, too?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pitch stories to the media<\/a> about volunteering, always including that you\u2019re looking for volunteers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Feature potential volunteer opportunities in your newsletter, along with a call-to-action to volunteer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ask your current volunteers to phone friends to invite to a volunteer event<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
When recruiting volunteers, in addition to spreading the word, don\u2019t forget to ask one-on-one. You may have supporters who would love to get more involved with your organization, if they only knew you wanted them. Prospective volunteers are everywhere you look<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once you start looking outside your immediate circle, the Internet is here to help you. Many communities have websites that serve as a central place for posting volunteer opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are also national websites that share opportunities or match volunteers and nonprofit organizations, like VolunteerMatch<\/a>, Create the Good<\/a> and Idealist<\/a>. You can search for volunteer opportunities by location and interests, so it\u2019s a good way to find the right audience in your geographical region who already care about what you do. Some cities and states have their own versions of sites like these as well. These resources can help you find the ideal candidate for each volunteer position you have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Offline, consider working with faith organizations, civic groups, and corporate partners through employee volunteer programs. You may be able to speak to them about volunteering, or put your ad in their newsletters. Setting up a display and meeting people at volunteer fairs and community events is also a good way to meet new prospective volunteers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Segment Your Communication<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re planning on putting out a call to your contacts about volunteer opportunities, sending the same templated recruitment message to everyone isn\u2019t always the most effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead, we recommend taking the time to craft a message that aligns with the interests and\/or past engagement of your target audience. If you\u2019re trying to re-engage lapsed volunteers, try crafting a recruitment message along the lines of how much you\u2019ve appreciated their help in the past and would love to have them involved with your cause again. On the other hand, if you\u2019re wanting to bring in donors as volunteers, you might express how grateful you are for their contribution and describe how they can further help your cause through volunteer efforts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s important to be intentional about who<\/em> you\u2019re communicating with and how<\/em> you do it when recruiting volunteers. Whether you send an email campaign or make personal phone calls will depend on each individual’s past level of involvement with your organization. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Get Specific<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\u201cVolunteer\u201d is not a specific description of a job. All it means is that someone isn\u2019t being paid for their time. Therefore, if you put out a general call for volunteers\u2026no one knows exactly what you mean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead of calling for volunteers, ask for people to do the specific jobs you need volunteers for. Put out the call for visitors, reading buddies, bike mechanics, tour guides, dog walkers, party planners, or deck builders. Prospective volunteers will know exactly what you\u2019re looking for, and see themselves in your posting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In fact, you may want to consider crafting a \u201cjob description\u201d for your volunteers. This way, not only are you communicating expectations up front but you’re holding your volunteers accountable and setting boundaries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As well as specific jobs, point to the specific skills that qualified volunteers need to do the job. If you\u2019re willing to teach someone how to do something, make sure you mention it. Otherwise, interested volunteers may remove themselves from the running if they don\u2019t know how to do the tasks you describe. Likewise, if you need special experience or have certain requirements for the ideal volunteer, make that clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/causevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/supper-club-volunteer-description.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAlong with specificity, be sure to include an email or a phone number that a prospective volunteer can reach out to if they have further questions, like in this example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/causevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bike-ms-volunteer-description.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGetting specific also helps to get around any mistaken ideas about volunteering that people may have. If someone\u2019s only experience with volunteering is a group or corporate volunteer day, they may think you\u2019re only looking for envelope stuffers or someone to pound nails, which they may or may not be interested in. Specifics paint a clearer picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Focus on Their Benefits, Not Your Needs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019ve established that volunteers are wonderful and you need them. Now it\u2019s time to flip the question, and ask why they need you. Why should someone give their time to your organization?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s easy to focus on your organizational needs, but this cannot be the central story of your volunteer recruitment efforts. \u201cWe need help!\u201d may be true, but it doesn\u2019t make the most compelling call for volunteering. Instead, focus on what volunteers gain by giving their time and make an emotional appeal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Include reasons like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Making a tangible difference<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Using their skills and talents for good<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Meeting and networking with others in the community<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Working to elevate a cause they believe in<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Helping others\/lending a hand-up<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/causevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/mentor-volunteer-description.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis call for volunteers focuses on making a huge difference, having fun, and creating a lifetime of change – all benefits to prospective volunteers. Plus, the emotional appeal in the short opening line really draws you in to learn more about how you might be able to do something about the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Have A Nice & Easy Process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Have you tried to sign up to volunteer for your organization? Is it easy? Are there clear steps to take? Are the people you encounter friendly and helpful?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s worth it to make sure you aren\u2019t offending or otherwise giving prospective volunteers a negative experience before they even get to you. Don\u2019t underestimate the power of a form that won\u2019t load, a cold-sounding receptionist, or an unreturned phone call to turn a volunteer off from your organization forever. It sounds dramatic, but it really does happen – first impressions matter<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Take a look at the Red Cross of Chicago and Northern Illinois\u2019 website<\/a>. They have a dedicated potential volunteer page that clearly lays out next steps toward becoming a volunteer, includes a detailed position description, and provides an email address and phone number, along with a great big application form button. It\u2019s easy to navigate, which means people are much more likely to actually begin and complete the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/causevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/E1KTOLQXeWSFKXmsLbliLVrFE6JvKPSGd07fOBNTYFgqS54NwBc0zOXa5aGjuE0zYcimJMHGTukoe_qRana-LLQs7f8Vvb4GZFcRCQeDViDgx1DBXgoxBBSj4859aLZgwIJa4YNZSwmIGVcB4ngIDc2rcE6AOEpu12jhodZ7fYqMW73l20u7W__adQ.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOnce someone expresses an interest in volunteering with you, follow up quickly (between 24-48 hours), even if it\u2019s just to say, \u201cThanks, we\u2019ll get back to you soon.\u201d If you really want to recruit volunteers, you want them to know how much you value their interest, so don\u2019t leave them hanging. Set up an automated email campaign for this to make sure you don\u2019t miss anyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Provide Opportunities for Different Levels of Engagement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Some volunteers will be ready to take on a part-time job level<\/a> of volunteering, while others will be looking for something to do once a month, or a couple times a year. Maximize the number of volunteers you can appeal to by providing opportunities to help out at different levels of commitment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grey2K, a national organization dedicated to ending greyhound racing, gives several options for ways to get involved. Some, like organizing a rally, are a large undertaking. Others, like hosting an outreach table, are less of a commitment. They even give the option of sharing posts on social media\u2013a very low commitment, but still a big help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![](\"https:\/\/causevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/8_H5DOLihFx39qJhI3cylhiIcwJpbS4MTRYSxyoY38BG8wG39dk5yb-GsYMiIdblY5628CB4tEx_VHFJqp_6YA9Fyw1UVaFDhaYyvPeKCIYRGvxku6E7sIUmnT3VolRbhGTCQHhisfI48zQcNEXtSHYPfAcU7l1gsVzqKL7aLJAkTj1BVLNzY94bbQ.png\")
<\/p>\n\n\n\nPeer-to-peer fundraising<\/a> is another great way for volunteers to get involved with your organization. Raising money to support your cause can be done on their own schedules, within their own networks, while still connecting to your organization. Raising money can also offer volunteers a very tangible way to see the impact of their help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![](\"https:\/\/causevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/VW2vLBYN0X_8EMUZNYbMsN3UbF-H5jQKa-TuUlVVWJt2bPhE_Rdpf_fMZyB6hxRXU42lUrOhJjRbEnI99hKlDtxryeEEOyLSdaVU0maJnsXndP3JBZPaA4uLnAeY8VF7Wu-j2TsXincfOqlhXPqAYbuZScWkM-Caz_WQL7kVNuA4T4wCdcARbQzLeA.png\")
<\/p>\n\n\n\nPostpartum Support International provides a general overview of volunteer opportunities for different levels of engagement, schedules, and interests. From working the helpline to a virtual volunteer position to being a peer mentor, there\u2019s bound to be something suited for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![](\"https:\/\/causevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/oseyLVcaH_zLnxHfB6VS2K7PGKo2SZ-vh17pj0bxP8e8kSCk1h_PtzY7P9epowAzfI1uhD5mg6AK06B3x1xmEXLSQWfDmAhM1XxhwfMO9YRoAuyMvP_CWiOu_pQnBeXS5slyjL3ZJmcstovnbwCwUrTz52M82PerQR40RZRed0PyU3gsfUHtIUGW6w.png\")
<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor each opportunity listed, there is a detailed position description so volunteers have a complete picture of what kind of commitment is expected. In addition to time and responsibilities, be sure to mention whether your volunteer opportunity is in-person or virtual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you recruit volunteers, make it clear in your volunteer content that you have opportunities for different levels of commitment. This helps people understand that they can be as involved as they want to be. If someone has a positive experience doing a small volunteer assignment for your organization, they may consider getting more involved in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s important to be flexible to your volunteers\u2019 changes in schedule and routine. They\u2019re the ones committing their time to your cause. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
7. Anticipating Concerns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A big part of calling for volunteers (and retaining them!) involves anticipating potential concerns and troubleshooting solutions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the challenge centers around work commitments, have your volunteer ask if their employer has or would be interested in a company-sponsored employee volunteer program<\/a>. Company volunteer programs come in all shapes and sizes. Some corporate partners may allow volunteers a certain number of hours per month to dedicate to a cause of their choice. Others may arrange structured outings where teams can participate together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your volunteer cites personal and family commitments as concerns, be flexible with a schedule that works for them or<\/strong> engage their family as a volunteer group. The more the merrier!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Aside from time constraints, another reason why someone might be hesitant to volunteer is that they may not feel qualified. To mitigate this, consider setting them up in a role that aligns with their skills or make your candidates feel confident in their role by having a thorough onboarding process and providing ongoing support and training. If your volunteer doesn\u2019t feel comfortable or isn\u2019t interested with what they\u2019re doing, they\u2019re unlikely to continue to volunteer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
By being proactive about potential challenges and concerns, you\u2019ll see more success in your recruiting efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
8. Make Your Volunteers Feel Appreciated<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A big reason why volunteers leave is because they don\u2019t feel appreciated. Making sure your volunteers feel valued falls in the bucket of both recruitment and retention. When you recognize and appreciate the value of your existing volunteers, you can leverage their support and loyalty by encouraging them to bring new volunteers on board via word-of-mouth marketing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s no one right way to recognize your volunteers. Based on your relationship with them and their preferred methods of communication, you can show your gratitude through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Giving verbal and written heart-felt thank yous<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spotlighting them on your organization\u2019s website<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Featuring them on your organization\u2019s social media platforms<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Highlighting their accomplishments on your organization\u2019s newsletter<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Thoughtfully gifting things such as photos, giftcards, or experiences<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Hosting a volunteer appreciation event<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Soliciting their feedback (and finding ways to incorporate their suggestions)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Presenting them with a special award (i.e. \u201cVolunteer of the Month\u201d, \u201cRising Changemaker Award\u201d, etc.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
So Remember\u2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When calling for volunteers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Ask people to volunteer, within your circles, and the larger community<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tailor your communication to the audience you\u2019re trying to recruit from<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Be specific about what you\u2019re looking for – indicate if there are special skills needed<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Focus on the benefits to volunteers, rather than to your organization<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Double-check to make sure it\u2019s easy and pleasant to sign up to volunteer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Provide a range of volunteer opportunities to engage volunteers at different levels of commitment<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Be proactive about concerns and challenges your volunteers may bring up<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Make sure your existing volunteers feel appreciated and valued<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Recruitment Is Just The First Step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Once you\u2019ve recruited a new volunteer, you\u2019ve only just begun! Now you\u2019ll need to manage and retain<\/a> them. Retention is the other side of the recruitment coin, and it might even be more important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Welcome your new volunteers, and make sure someone is appointed to check in and engage with them regularly, so that the volunteers you worked so hard to recruit grow with your organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To get more tips on all things nonprofit, from marketing to leveraging volunteers for fundraising, subscribe to our email list, trusted by over 65,000 nonprofit professionals!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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