“Our volunteers were so prepared for the demands of this campaign; I think they are ready for the next one!” – Overheard by no one, anywhere, ever.

But how nice would it be if your volunteers walked into the next campaign or event planning meeting energized and encouraged? Thankfully, the best thing you can do to prepare your volunteers in advance for a campaign is also the same thing you would do to increase the overall health of your organization: consistent motivation and encouragement.

Here are a few ideas to get that started:

1. Be intentional about letting volunteers know when they have done a good job or had an impact. BF Skinner’s Reinforcement Theory reminds us that consequences influence behavior. And just like children, adults who are given positive attention or recognition are more likely to remain or increase their positive behavior and actions with your organization.

2. Share positive gossip such as, “I heard that you did a great job the other day on…” Secondhand compliments are more valuable than when you praise the volunteer yourself.

3. Give regular feedback. It is easy to assume volunteers know that they are appreciated or are doing a good job. But without regular check-ins, many people tend to fall into a spiral of doubt. Thoughts such as, “I am probably not even needed, why would I show up again?” Or, “I doubt they remember all the work I did last year anyway,” are all too common. Volunteers need to know that their work was seen, valued, and appreciated. And they probably need to be told more than once.

4. Thank the families of volunteers. Families all look different, but when those who are closest to the volunteer know that they are impacting the organization and making a positive difference in the world, the volunteer feels even better about their contributions. Do this by inviting someone close to the volunteer to an event and personally thanking them for giving up time with the volunteer so they can help your organization.

No campaign is successful without a core group of dedicated volunteers. A campaign often demands late-night or early-morning meetings to tackle what may feel like a lofty goal. But an organization whose volunteer morale is consistently maintained from before a campaign even begins will have unparalleled energy, driving the campaign to its goal and organically building the next tier of dedicated volunteers.

Sources: https://www.managementstudyguide.com/reinforcement-theory-motivation.htm