Volunteer Onboarding: Make it the Beginning of a Successful Relationshippresented by Elise HyderCertification ChairCincinnati Association of Volunteer Administrators

What are qualities you look for in a volunteer?

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Connection is vital for building a successful relationship

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Key Elements for Successful Relationships with Volunteers• Respect• Understanding• Clear definition of role and responsibility• Clear understanding of procedures or rules• Opportunities to meet and share in planning and

evaluation processes

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Before Onboarding

•Clearly defined roles for volunteers and staff Position Descriptions – be as specific as possible Set the standards and expectations• Develop Policies & Procedures• Identify the requirements of risk management in developing

opportunities Detailed application Background checks Privacy policy rights of volunteers Non-discrimination clause

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The Interview: First Date• Opportunity to discover if the volunteer is a good fit for a seat on your “bus” and vice

versa (Jim Collins, Good to Great)• Personal connection = glue to building engagement• Provide clear set of expectations• In what format do you interview?

Face to face PhoneWhat are important qualities you are looking for in a volunteer? Help guide your interview and screening techniques Refer to position description

• What are questions you ask on interviews? What are your core values? What about our mission motivated you to volunteer with us? How do you think you can help us achieve our mission? What accomplishment In your life has given you great satisfaction?

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We must establish a personal connection with each other. Connection before content.

Without relatedness, no work can occur.- Peter Block

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The Orientation: Let’s Go SteadyWelcome to the Team!•Mission and vision of your organization

Mission moment o video, recipient of your mission, share story

•How volunteers contribute to the success of your organization •Tour of facility •Generate excitement and enthusiasm•Empower volunteers to become advocates of your mission •Recognize and show gratitude for their commitment

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Additional Orientation/Training

• Other topics (consider online modules and individualized training)

History of organization Introduction of key staff and board Organization’s core values Rules/Policies Recognition Volunteer benefits Communiciations Confidentiality Cultural sensitivity Supervision Hands-on training

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The Handbook: Establish trust in your relationship • Key foundational risk management strategy

Protect volunteers, client and agency by providing guidelines for acceptable conduct

• Resource for volunteers for questions about policies and procedures

• Not a training manual; consider separate document• Helps deepen level of engagement; helps volunteers discern the

following questions: Does this organization have the capacity to make a difference in the

world? Can I make a difference here? Will I fit in?

From: Tobi Johnson & Associates

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What should you include?• Organizational Overview • Professionalism and Ethics • The Role of Volunteers • Workplace Safety • Service Standards • Supervision & Support• Training Program • Supervision & Support • Volunteer Separation and Dismissal • Required Reporting• Photos of other volunteers at work

From: Tobi Johnson & Associates

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Give of your time and your energy to volunteers, they’ll give it back ten-fold = Engagement!

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