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Developing: Screening Volunteers: The Decisionmaking Process

Despite your creativity, there will be times when there simply will not be a proper fit between a volunteer and your MRC unit. In these cases, it is better to put this person on standby if they seem to be a potentially useful resource. It is better to remain in touch with them rather than pressuring them into work that may adversely affect their volunteer experience. Maintain a file of prospects, and do not hesitate to stay in contact with them.

There also will be individuals who apply as volunteers who simply will not be appropriate for several reasons. They may not understand the MRC’s mission properly. You may discover, while interviewing them, that they would be happier doing other work. Or, you may determine that they want to volunteer for activities that they are not credentialed properly for. Unfortunately, screening also means turning people away if their participation might hinder your team’s effectiveness.

Remember, even if you do not think an applicant will fit well with your MRC, it always is appropriate to give that person contact information for other volunteer organizations in your area where the fit might be better. Turning prospects away can be one of the more difficult parts of managing volunteer relations. As such, if you have doubts about a prospect or about your assessment of that prospect, ask for help. Seek other volunteer organizations in your area that would be willing to discuss their screening methods and criteria.

You might also talk with someone with human resources expertise (i.e., someone who has experience in interviewing, hiring, and firing). When you are unsure of what to do, suggestions from outside input can be extremely useful, even if you are responsible for the final decision. Interviewing and evaluating applicants is a highly specialized process, and fortunately one in which you will become more adept with increasing, hands-on experience. The key to reducing risk through volunteer screening is to develop standards and apply them consistently.

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Last Updated on 8/21/2006