Behavioral Expectations (in volunteer management): Guidelines for how volunteers should conduct themselves.
Behavioral expectations
Guidelines for how volunteers should conduct themselves while engaging with your organization. These standards help create a respectful, productive, and positive environment.
What are volunteer behavioral expectations
Behavioral expectations set the tone for how volunteers interact with each other and the community they serve. These guidelines are essential for fostering a professional atmosphere. For instance, if you emphasize respect, volunteers will know to treat one another and community members kindly.
On the flip side, if your expectations are vague or nonexistent, you risk misunderstandings, conflicts, and potentially damaging your organization’s reputation. Think of behavioral expectations like a roadmap; they guide volunteers on how to navigate challenges while remaining aligned with the organization’s mission. These expectations encompass punctuality, the manner of communication, dress code, and how volunteers deal with sensitive situations.
For example, if a volunteer is late repeatedly, they may need a reminder about the importance of respecting others’ time. However, behaviors that harm team dynamics, like gossip or negativity, should prompt immediate conversations.
Another noteworthy aspect is embracing diversity and inclusion. When volunteers understand the value you place on these principles, they are more likely to cultivate a welcoming environment. Remember, it’s not just about what volunteers do; it’s about how they do it. Treating others with empathy and kindness is invaluable in maintaining a thriving volunteer community. A great approach is to share inspiring stories of individuals who embodied these expectations, imbuing them with a sense of purpose and belonging.
Best practices
- Be clear about what behaviors you expect. These should be communicated through documentation, orientation sessions or training workshops.
- Lead by example. When team leaders embody the expected behaviors, volunteers are more likely to mirror them.
- Provide regular feedback to your volunteers. Constructive insights into how they’re performing in relation to behavior expectations foster growth and reinforce positive behaviors.
Most common pitfalls for
- One major pitfall is being too vague or ambiguous. When you leave things open to interpretation, chaos can ensue.
- Inconsistencies can creep in. If volunteers see one person acting against the expected behavior with no repercussions, it sends mixed signals.
- Overlooking cultural sensitivities can alienate volunteers. Not understanding diverse backgrounds can lead to inappropriate behaviors or comments, which can harm group dynamics.
How we can help
Zelos is a modern volunteer signup app that can assist in implementing and communicating behavioral expectations effectively. For example, you can share guidelines directly through our interface, ensuring every volunteer is on the same page; or send out private feedback if someone has forgotten an important rule.
Sign up for a free account today and see how Zelos Team Management can help you communicate expectations to your volunteers.