Volunteer-staff relations

A third factor that affects volunteer retention is the relationship between volunteers and staff. Two of the most important aspects of good volunteer-staff relations are:

• a clear definition of roles and responsibilities, and
• effective communication.

It doesn't matter whether any specific job is done by a volunteer or by a paid staff person. An agency might have a volunteer performing the duties of an executive director, and have a paid administrative assistant. The critical issues in are:

• everyone knows what is expected from his/her role
• any conflicts get resolved through open discussion, and
• the work gets done.

Volunteers and staff should support each other in their roles. Striving for a climate of respect within the agency will lead to a positive atmosphere where everyone is working together for the betterment of the organization.

Summary

People who are satisfied with the recognition, training and relationships they have with your organization will stay involved. Volume One of Community Literacy of Ontario's Guide for the Development of Policies and Procedures, (section 3, appendix 6) suggests that literacy volunteers have rights to these aspects of volunteer management. By ensuring your agency follows through on these, your volunteers will be happier, more enthusiastic and more productive members of your team.