Will they stay or will they go now? Train, retain and continue to gain

Two key parts explain why staying power is imperative. They equate to not only time – but also a serious revenue stream. According to the Corporation for National & Community Service, 64.5 million Americans volunteered nearly 7.9 billion hours in 2012. The estimated value of this volunteer service was nearly $175 billion overall. The sound of this alone can bring music to a nonprofit’s limited-revenue-streamed ears.

Well, the good news is the numbers are on the association’s side. The Corporation also reported 1 in 4 adults (26.5 percent) volunteered through an organization, demonstrating that volunteering
remains an important activity for millions of Americans. Recruitment is a job in and of itself, but it won’t mean much unless the association gives them a reason to return. So, how does an association continue to capitalize? Here are a few helpful hints to appropriately train, retain and continue to gain.

1. Learn what makes them tick.

Knowledge is power. Understanding why members volunteer is the key to motivation. Many see volunteering as a pathway to employment, so associations should tailor their task to fit their interests. Even though they work in finance by day, doesn’t necessarily mean they want to have anything to do with bookkeeping. They might be interested in learning a whole new field. Spend a couple minutes screening them and find out what it is they hope to gain from their experience. Just five extra minutes could mean 5 more years of service.

2. Thank them. Early and often.

Nothing can kill a volunteer’s spirit faster than forgetting to acknowledge their existence and efforts. Volunteers are more likely to quit an organization if they feel unappreciated. Words of affirmation are their love language, so speak to their giving hearts. Hand-written notes go a long way. Stroke their egos a little, and let them know they make all the difference.

3. You better recognize.

Monetarily compensating volunteers of course is off the table – hence the gig – however, rewarding them in other ways can have a significant impact on retention rates. No cost things such as built-in “promotions” or granting “mentor-status” can give volunteers an opportunity to acquire a higher position, boosting their morale and increasing engagement. It not only makes them aware of their importance, but gives the other volunteers something to work toward.

Ultimately the name of the game is this: not what volunteers can do for an association, but rather, what can an association do for them. If an organization can tap into their volunteers strengths and weaknesses, all the while making them feel at home, it will find itself with gifts that keep on giving.