Last updated on Apr 3, 2025

You're onboarding new volunteers. How can you set performance expectations without demotivating them?

Welcoming new volunteers to your organization is a pivotal moment for both parties. It's essential to establish a mutual understanding of expectations to maintain enthusiasm and commitment. Yet, it's also crucial to avoid setting the bar so high that it becomes demotivating. Striking the right balance between challenging and achievable goals is key to a successful volunteer onboarding process.

1 Clarify Roles

Clearly defining roles is the first step in setting performance expectations. Make sure each volunteer understands their responsibilities, how they fit into the bigger picture, and the impact of their work. This clarity helps volunteers feel valued and see the purpose behind their tasks, which is a significant motivator.

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Renata Ricchezza R Furtado

Relações Públicas Especialista em Comunicação Integrada TEDx Speaker - Voluntariado Digital
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A clareza na comunicação é extremamente importante para o sucesso dos projetos de voluntariado e para os voluntários também. Fazer uma descrição clara das responsabilidades de cada um ajuda os voluntários a entenderem o que se espera deles e também o impacto que a sua doação de tempo vai gerar para sociedade ou para o público de determinado projeto.

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Gaurav Tripathi

HR Professional.
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To set performance expectations without demotivating new volunteers, communicate clearly about roles, responsibilities, and goals. Frame expectations as opportunities for growth and skill development. Set realistic, achievable goals, and break tasks into smaller steps to ensure volunteers feel confident. Provide consistent support and create a feedback loop for guidance. Recognize and appreciate efforts, even small wins, to motivate them. Foster a collaborative and open environment, allowing volunteers to share concerns and adjust expectations as needed. This approach ensures engagement and success.

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2 Set Goals

When setting goals, ensure they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). This framework helps volunteers understand exactly what is expected of them and by when, providing a clear direction and a sense of accomplishment as they meet these goals.

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Renata Ricchezza R Furtado

Relações Públicas Especialista em Comunicação Integrada TEDx Speaker - Voluntariado Digital
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É muito importante que as metas e objetivos definidos sejam realistas e alcançáveis e também que os voluntários entendam a importância e como essas metas contribuem para o sucesso do projeto. Essa visão mais sistêmica contribui para gerar um senso de pertencimento no voluntário e com isso um maior engajamento no projeto.

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3 Provide Training

Adequate training equips volunteers with the knowledge and skills they need to perform their roles effectively. It also demonstrates your investment in their success, which can boost their confidence and motivation. Make training engaging and interactive to maximize its effectiveness.

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4 Offer Support

Ongoing support is vital for maintaining volunteer motivation. Regular check-ins allow you to address any concerns, provide feedback, and adjust expectations if necessary. This support system shows volunteers that they are not alone and that their contributions are appreciated.

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5 Recognize Effort

Acknowledging the hard work and achievements of volunteers is a powerful motivator. Recognition can be as simple as a thank you note or a shout-out during meetings. It reinforces positive behavior and encourages continued effort.

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Immanuel J.

Data-Driven MBA | Business & Financial Management Pro | Python, SQL & Tableau Savvy | Championing Sustainability & Impactful Growth | Mortgages | financial services Views and opinion are my own.
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You should recognize and understand why people are volunteering for particular matter. So when you attempt to recognize them, you are providing them the emotional uplift and recognition for fulfilling their own WHY that aligns with your organization goals.

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6 Foster Community

Building a sense of community among volunteers can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience. Encourage collaboration and create opportunities for volunteers to connect with each other. A strong community can provide additional motivation and support, leading to better performance and retention.

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You're onboarding new volunteers. How can you set performance expectations without demotivating them?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Clarify Roles

2 Set Goals

3 Provide Training

4 Offer Support

5 Recognize Effort

6 Foster Community

Volunteering

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You're onboarding new volunteers. How can you set performance expectations without demotivating them?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Clarify Roles

2 Set Goals

3 Provide Training

4 Offer Support

5 Recognize Effort

6 Foster Community

Volunteering

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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