Part of our feedback and reporting process involves asking volunteers what tips they have for community groups and vice versa.

Here is some of the advice we have received from volunteers - and it seems to come down to flexibility, clear communication and good feedback.

It's really important that when a volunteer expresses interest in a position, that a decision is made quickly (within a few days) regarding whether to proceed with their application. This initial communication stage will often determine the success of a project.

Feedback:

“It’s the same as any collaborative process; clear communication, defining skills and working with deadlines are the key.”

“Be very clear about the outcomes required from the [volunteer project] and how many hours each party can put towards its completion. Both parties need to be flexible, as far as possible, to allow the [volunteer project] to be completed to its highest potential taking into account the other responsibilities both the volunteer and [community group] have in their roles”.

“...everybody is pretty busy these days, so after the initial scoping meeting try to stick to the agreed topics and timelines.”

"Give plenty of information and insight into what you’re looking for. Provide feedback along the way when the volunteer wants to check they’re on the right track. Be flexible with time as sometimes its challenging working full-time “in a corporate environment and doing a major project in volunteering.”

If you have a tip that you would like to share with us, please contact us at mail@goodcompany.com.au