Motivation (in volunteer management): Factors that drive volunteers to participate and contribute.
Volunteer motivation
Factors that stimulate volunteers to participate and contribute their time and skills to a cause. Understanding what drives these individuals helps organizations tailor their pitches to inspire action and retention.
What is volunteer motivation
Motivation is a psychological force that compels individuals to take action. For volunteers, this could stem from intrinsic motivations—such as a personal passion for a cause—or extrinsic motivations, such as recognition or social connections.
For example, a person may volunteer at a local animal shelter because they love animals (intrinsic) and want to gain experience for a future career in veterinary science (extrinsic). It’s essential to clarify that motivation can vary significantly among volunteers—what inspires one may not catch another’s attention. Factors like a sense of community, the desire to develop new skills, or even the joy of meeting like-minded individuals often play a huge role. A volunteer who feels undervalued may drop out, showcasing how essential motivation is to retention.
Conversely, what is not motivation? Coercion or obligation. If a volunteer feels forced rather than inspired, they might contribute less enthusiastically. It’s vital for organizations to recognize this balance of intrinsic and extrinsic factors when tapping into the volunteer pool.
Best practices
- Always have clear communication about the organization’s mission. This helps volunteers see the greater good.
- Create opportunities for volunteers to share their stories. Hearing personal experiences can inspire others.
- Recognize your volunteers regularly. A quick “thank you” can go a long way in keeping the motivation high.
Most common pitfalls
- Don’t make assumptions about what motivates volunteers; their reasons can differ widely, and your assumptions may lead to disengagement.
- Avoid neglecting volunteer feedback. Ignoring their suggestions can demotivate them, so always listen.
- Don’t overlook proper training. If volunteers feel unequipped to contribute meaningfully, they may lose interest quickly.
How we can help
Zelos is a volunteer signup app that encourages feedback and interaction, making it easier to keep everyone engaged. With our gamification features you can also create additional motivation boosts by hosting friendly competitions or reward programs.
Try out Zelos Team Management by signing up for a free account!