Embracing Change: The Future of Volunteer Management
Are you struggling to maintain enough volunteers in your organisation? You’re not alone! In this article, we'll delve into the challenges facing community organisations and sport and recreation clubs and associations when it comes to managing volunteers effectively. We'll explore the shifting landscape of volunteering and discuss how adopting a new mindset and approach can help you overcome the hurdles ahead.
A Changing Landscape of Volunteering and Embracing Reality
Volunteering has always been the lifeblood of community organisations and sport and recreation clubs. However, in recent times, we've witnessed a decline in the number of volunteers stepping forward to offer their time and skills. This downward trend is likely to continue, so it's essential for us to adapt to the changing environment.
It's important to approach this situation with a realistic mindset. While we don't want to be overly pessimistic, we must acknowledge that the traditional ways of attracting volunteers may not yield the same results as before. Relying on past approaches alone won't suffice; we need to think outside the box and create new systems that appeal to potential volunteers in the modern world.
The Value of Volunteers and Running Organisations Like a Business
Volunteers play a pivotal role in the community. We rely on these dedicated individuals to manage various tasks and events in local organisations and grassroots clubs. Moving forward, we must consider how we can replace declining volunteer numbers to ensure the smooth functioning of our organisations.
One way to adapt to the changing landscape is to treat your organisation more like a business. Having a sound and more systemised “business” structure can be more enticing to current and potential volunteers. You need to run operations as efficiently as possible, taking into account financial management and sustainable practices. Consider your canteen, for example; it can be more than just a place to sell food. By viewing it as a business unit, you can explore innovative ways to generate revenue and allocate resources more effectively. You can read more about effectively marketing your canteen here.
Rethinking membership fees is also a key component for the success of your organisation. Many organisations offer inexpensive membership fees as a way to attract members, but this approach may no longer be sustainable. As the cost of living increases, so do the expenses for running an organisation. To ensure your organisation remains viable, consider assessing and adjusting your membership fees periodically. Remember to be transparent and communicate these changes to your members, highlighting the reasons behind the adjustments.
Over the past 26 years working with community organistions and grassroots clubs, CPR Group consultants have consistently heard the same types of roadblock thinking that hinder change:
"We do it like that because that's how we've always done it."
"We tried that once and it didn't work."
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
These mindsets are common, but can hinder inevitable progress. It's time to challenge these thoughts and embrace change. Instead of sticking to outdated methods, encourage a culture of innovation and experimentation within your organisation.
Emphasising Volunteer Management
Managing volunteers effectively is a part of the success of any community organisation. Here are some tips to enhance your volunteer management process:
Don't wait for volunteers to come to you. Actively seek and recruit potential volunteers through various channels, including social media, local events and word-of-mouth.
Volunteers are more likely to stay committed if they feel valued and appreciated. Recognise their efforts regularly and create a positive and inclusive environment.
Offer training sessions and workshops to help volunteers enhance their skills and knowledge. This investment not only benefits your organisation but also enriches the volunteers' experiences.
Understand that volunteers have commitments beyond your organisation. Be flexible with schedules and tasks to accommodate their availability and preferences.
Plan for the future by developing a succession plan. Identify potential leaders among your volunteers and prepare them for future leadership roles.
As the landscape of volunteering continues to change, community organisations, sport and recreation clubs and associations need to adapt their volunteer management strategies. Embracing change, treating your organisations as businesses, reevaluating membership fees and breaking through roadblock thinking are steps in ensuring a sustainable and thriving future for volunteer-driven entities. By nurturing and empowering your volunteers, you create a stronger sense of community and achieve remarkable outcomes together.
In the next article of this series, we will explore more strategies to optimise volunteer management and foster growth in your organisation. Stay tuned!
Supporting organisations for over 26 years in Australia, CPR Group consultants have become the industry experts and leaders in governance support. To contact a CPR Group consultant for governance support, email info@cprgroup.com.au or call us on 1800 100 204.
