Volunteer Training Toolkit Six Effective Ways to Develop Impactful and Committed Volunteers

1. Have clear expectations – You must have clear expectations for volunteers. People thrive when they know what is expected of them. If you are vague with responsibilities, you and they will get frustrated, because you will both have different expectations. Expectations raise commitment level. Just because they volunteer, does not mean they should not have higher expectations. When there are no expectations, volunteers will create their own.

2. If necessary, have them start slow – Some volunteers may need to start slow. If you want them to lead a small group, maybe start with having them partner with an experienced facilitator. This one should really be dependent on the volunteer. If they are ready to jump in with both feet, let them do it!

3. Learn their passions, strengths and weaknesses - I understand that there are needs within the ministry you lead, but if you force people into roles that play to their weaknesses you will have a lot of turnover. For example, if you have someone who is passionate about helping behind the scenes, do not have them as your connector or in charge of crowd control. Start by asking your volunteers the right questions: “When are you at your best?” ‘What gives you energy?” “What drains you?” I strongly recommend having them take an assessment like CliftonStrengths {learn more here}, and discuss the results. When you focus on your volunteer’s strengths you will build their confidence and their enjoyment in volunteering.

4. Coach them – Once you know the strengths and weaknesses of your volunteers, you need to be their coach. Here are a few things coaches do: • Listens • Asks more questions, than gives answers. Let them find the solution! • Helps set goals • Points out what they do well {See more in them than they see in themselves} • Provide structure • Give feedback • Be empathetic

5. Use a training curriculum - There are many great training tools out there for you to use. You do not have to create your own. This training can be in-person or virtual. Everyone gets stagnant if they top learning. You can check out our training at https://www.vision2- 10.com/work/#/online-leadership-course/

6. Celebrate, encourage, and pray with your volunteers - The health of your volunteers is pivotal to the success of the ministry you lead. First, celebrate “wins” with your leaders. It is easy for volunteers not to see their impact. It is your job to show them their impact. Second, do not take your volunteers for granted, but make sure you frequently praise and encourage them. Remember, they are not being paid. Finally, do not just pray for your volunteers, pray with them. Prayer strengthens community, encourages people and keeps everyone focused on Christ, who is really in charge! I hope this can help you with building an impactful and committed volunteer team.

Remember, volunteers can make or break the success of the ministry you lead.

How are you training volunteers?