Volunteer Onboarding: Make it the Beginning of a Successful Relationship presented by Elise Hyder Certification Chair Cincinnati Association of Volunteer Administrators

What are qualities you look for in a volunteer? 2 /a>, or enable JavaScript if it is disabled in your browser.

Connection is vital for building a successful relationship 3

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 4

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 5

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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  Phone What 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? 7

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 Steady Welcome 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 10

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 11

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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 13

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 14

Give of your time and your energy to volunteers, they’ll give it back ten-fold = Engagement! 15