In the world of professional membership associations, volunteers play a pivotal role in driving the organisation’s mission and facilitating member engagement. Their dedication is what contributes to the success of the association; however, maximising volunteers’ engagement requires thorough planning and effective communication.
Professional membership association’s management committees are usually made up of volunteers. They act as the driving force behind the organisation, working alongside the administration team to provide industry knowledge and help contribute towards member outreach and advocacy efforts.
Volunteers act as the frontline for the association, becoming the faces members see when looking for support. Volunteers who feel valued and appreciated within the association are the ones who are most likely to remain committed and continuously contribute their time and skills.
If you are looking to grow your association or restructure your management, there are some important factors to consider.
Clear Responsibilities
When building or expanding a management committee, it is crucial to define clear roles and responsibilities that align with the association’s goals and objectives. Clear expectations from volunteers should be addressed from the outset, giving the volunteer the best possible understanding of their role.
By aligning volunteer opportunities with their industry interests, you can increase the likelihood of their engagement and long-term commitment.
Tailored Volunteer Recruitment
Consider the candidate’s skills, interests and availability so that they can be matched to a role best suited to them. Personalised recruitment processes, such as targeted emails or one-to-one meetings can help identify individuals who are passionate about their industry.
Support
Initial training and ongoing support will equip volunteers with the know how they need to fulfil their roles effectively. This could be done in the form of workshops, webinars, or one-to-ones which cover your association’s strategy and member engagement techniques. Alongside this, a mentorship scheme will support volunteers, providing guidance and help to make them to feel more confident and capable in their roles.
Open Communication
Regular and consistent communication between volunteers and the administration team is vital. Encourage volunteers to share their ideas and any feedback they may have for the association. Their input should be considered and acted upon, which will demonstrate a willingness to incorporate their suggestions into the organisation’s decision-making processes. By offering collaboration and allowing for transparency, you can strengthen trust and engagement among volunteers.
Recognition and Appreciation
Acknowledging volunteer’s efforts and contributions will provide motivation for their continued engagement. Make sure to praise volunteers, potentially providing public thank-yous highlighting their achievements. Milestones should also be celebrated, such as anniversaries or large project completions.
Maximising volunteer engagement is essential for professional membership associations to thrive and achieve their goal, but recruitment and upkeep should be a thought-out process. Harnessing the collective energy and enthusiasm of volunteers will help associations to propel their mission forward and create an engaging community that benefits members and stakeholders alike.
