Conflict resolution when volunteers are involved

Dealing with conflict

There are people out there who have researched and analyzed conflict resolution for years.

They are amazingly skilled and confident in it. I’m not one of them. You may not be either.

That said, anyone who deals with groups of people – especially passionate people like volunteers – needs to have at least a working knowledge of conflict management, so I have studied it.

Volunteer programs often bring together people from different backgrounds and experiences. This will almost inevitably lead to conflict. And, while conflict in and of itself isn’t necessarily bad (check out Margaret Heffernan’s TED talk “Dare to Disagree”), if it’s not handled well, it can destroy a program.

Conflicts are bound to arise, but it is how we resolve them that can make all difference in creating a positive and productive environment for volunteers.

In my experience, there are five key points to focus on:

Stop it before it starts

The best type of conflict resolution is prevention. Stop it before it really gets going. It takes courage, but be willing to deal with even the small signs of resentment as soon as they appear. Don't let things fester.

It isn’t always easy to see conflict before it becomes a major issue, but it’s one of the skills that leaders of volunteers need. Pay attention to the little signs of bitterness and disrespect that may show up.

Things like one volunteer rolling their eyes when another one speaks, or back-handed compliments. I dealt with an issue once where one party kept saying things like “Oh, so-and-so is great at that.” Condescension just dripped from her voice. I had to pull her aside and find out what was behind the spite before it blew up into a full-scale battle.

Get clarity

Listening is probably the most powerful tool in conflict resolution because it allows all parties to feel heard and understood. In many cases, that in itself may be enough to solve the problem.

Ask questions to clarify issues and help all sides understand where the others are coming from. It also helps you as the mediator to get to the root cause of the conflict. Often what people seem to be fighting about isn’t the real issue.

Remain objective

It’s vital to stay objective. Even if you are fully on the side of one party, it is essential that you don’t do or say anything to indicate that. Demonstrating preference will only escalate the issue.

If you remain firmly neutral and calm, you help everyone else step back from the emotion a bit, and discuss things more reasonably. Objectivity helps people focus on facts rather than personalities.

There are two exceptions to this rule. One is if the conflict is between a volunteer in your program and a staff or board member. The volunteer is part of your team so – as long as their position is reasonable – it is your responsibility to defend them. Part of your role is to advocate for the volunteers in your program and to have their back.

The other exception is if one of the parties is being abusive to another or is doing something that may harm someone or the organization itself. In this case, you need to treat it less as a conflict and more as a disciplinary issue.

Search for win-win solutions

Once you have heard all sides of the conflict, come up with common ground, things that all sides can agree on. Look for shared values or interests and use those as a starting point to build understanding.

Many conflicts are less about what goal to aim for as they are about methods to reach that goal. What can be done to satisfy all parties? Once you have taken the emotion out of the conflict by hearing all sides and focusing on the facts of the core issue, most people are willing to look for a solution that satisfies everyone, even if it means compromising a bit.

Show empathy and understanding

According to Sherry Turkle, professor of social studies of science and technology at MIT, empathy allows us to “combat the dislocation and anxiety that people feel when they face a moment of crisis alone.”

When people feel disconnected and anxious, they are more likely to fall into conflict with those around them. By showing empathy and understanding towards all parties, by acknowledging their emotions and helping them feel valued, you build trust and create a more positive and productive environment to foster conflict resolution.

You don’t need to be a professional mediator or an expert in conflict resolution to deal with the issues that will come up in your volunteer program. Focus on the five points above and you will find that you can help people work through most of the animosity that may arise.

It’s not the most enjoyable part of the job, but you’ve got this.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.

Effective 'onboarding' of volunteers

Welcoming volunteers

Do you have an effective "onboarding" process for volunteers, or do you have a bit of a revolving door?

Do volunteers come in, stick around for a shift or maybe a dozen, then head right back out again? Effective onboarding can make a huge difference in the retention of your volunteers and, therefore, the success of your mission.

Onboarding is the process of welcoming new volunteers and getting them up to speed about the organization’s mission, goals and expectations. An effective process can help volunteers feel engaged, informed and confident in their roles, which leads to higher levels of satisfaction and impact. Here are some of the key components that I’ve found to be most useful.

1. Communication

Even before a new volunteer starts, it’s essential to establish good communication. Clarify with them what communication methods work best for them, make sure you have the correct email, phone number, etc. Let them know what they can expect over the first few weeks/shifts and what you expect from them (dress, code of conduct, etc). Provide them with necessary access to resources they’ll need (ie: passwords or entry codes), and the links to your website and/or volunteer management software. If you aren’t the person who will be supervising them, introduce the volunteer to their supervisor. Regular, two-way communication should carry on throughout the volunteer’s time with you.

2. Orientation session

Prior to new a volunteer’s first shift, they should be welcomed with an orientation session. That session should help the volunteer understand the organization’s vision, values, goals and culture. It can also cover its history, and the impact volunteers have made. In addition, the session should cover such essential information as health and safety, how to sign up for shifts and policies and procedures. If appropriate, it can include a tour of the facility. Orientation sessions can be done one-on-one, but they can also be scheduled to include several new volunteers, or be used as a refresher for current volunteers.

3. Training

Training is a vital part of helping a volunteer feel competent and confident in their new role. They should receive training that is relevant, and should cover everything from the basics, to more specific skills or procedures that are needed to carry out their duties effectively. Training can be done in a variety of ways including in-person training, on-line workshops and/or role shadowing and mentoring with a more experienced volunteer or staff member.

4. Volunteer handbook

A volunteer handbook (whether in print or online) is a valuable resource for volunteers. One should be provided to them during the onboarding process. If you don't have one, now's the time to create one. The handbook should cover much of the same information as was covered in the orientation, as well as specifics from the volunteer’s training. It should also include policies and procedures that affect volunteers, such as dress codes or how to escalate issues. Finally, the handbook can include resources such as frequently asked questions, the year’s event calendar and contact information.

5. Mentoring

I have mentioned in previous columns that I am a huge fan of mentoring. I have mentors. My mentors have mentors and their mentors probably have mentors. Mentors can answer questions, provide guidance and offer support and encouragement throughout the volunteer’s time with the organization. Choose mentors from your pools of experienced volunteers or staff members, those who have a good understanding of the organization’s culture and values, and who have the time to, and interest in, guiding new volunteers.

6. Regular check-ins

Checking in with a new volunteer is vital. This comes back to communication. Regular chats to see how things are going and to provide any updates can ensure volunteers feel supported and engaged. Encourage the volunteer to share their experiences and thoughts. They may have a brilliant new idea for doing a regular task. Getting their opinions on how things work can greatly improve their engagement with the organization. These check-ins can be done in different ways, depending on the way the volunteer prefers to be communicated with. In person, over the phone, or by email or text – whatever way is best for them.

7. Recognition and appreciation

As always, showing a volunteer how valuable they are to the mission is the best way to keep them happy. That’s likely why they volunteered in the first place. Whether through informal thank-yous, tangible shows of gratitude, public acknowledgement or appreciation events, or all four, show all your volunteers that you notice and appreciate the impact that they are making.

An effective volunteer onboarding process is crucial to any successful volunteer program. Take the time to think through your current process step by step. Using this general template, adjust it so it fits both the needs of your organization and the volunteers themselves.

You’d be amazed at the difference it can make.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.

Succession planning for volunteer boards

Planning for the future

The benefits of public acknowledging volunteers

Thanking those who help

Public acknowledgement of volunteers is important – and in more ways than one.

As we all know, volunteers play a crucial role in our communities. They give up their time and energy to help others, whether it’s through stocking food at a food bank, mentoring a child, or cleaning up a local park.

However, few people outside the organization or their immediate circles are aware of their hard work and dedication. There are a few of reasons why that needs to change.

Public acknowledgement can up your appreciation game.

Obviously, recognizing volunteers is a way to show them we see and value their efforts and contributions. By publicly acknowledging volunteers, though, we take that appreciation to another level, helping to increase volunteer retention. This can help to ensure that organizations have a consistent group of volunteers to rely on.

For example, in my city of Kamloops, B.C., there is an annual volunteer recognition ceremony, where anyone who volunteers can come, share some food, enjoy music and be given awards for their contributions. It’s a lot of fun, even if you do have to listen to speeches from politicians.

It increases community awareness. The Kamloops volunteer event and others like it not only recognize the efforts of volunteers but also brings attention to the causes those volunteers are working for.

They can be a great way to highlight the important work that organizations do in the community. That can help the cause and bring in more donations.

Public acknowledgement can also improve recruitment. Seeing volunteers acknowledged can encourage other people to volunteer. When people see others being recognized for their volunteer work, it can inspire them to get involved themselves. I

t’s a way to showcase the impact that volunteers have. Most people really want to make a difference, and seeing others are doing it and it’s not out of reach can be just the catalyst others need.

It strengthens community ties. Volunteers are the backbone of community organizations and events. By publicly recognizing their efforts, we are not only thanking them for their work but also acknowledging the important role they play in our communities.

That can help to build stronger connections between volunteers, community members, and organizations. If a community organization holds a volunteer appreciation event, it can be an opportunity for volunteers to connect with each other and with other members of the community.

By sharing stories and experiences, they can form bonds and create a sense of community and belonging that can help to strengthen the fabric of our entire society.

Events aren’t the only way to thank volunteers publicly. I’ve referred mostly to large events, but those aren’t your only option. Public acknowledgement can take many forms, such as a certificate of appreciation they can display or a spotlight on their efforts during an AGM.

You can also do a shout out on social media about the impact they make, or have a story about them in your newsletter or on your website.

A cavate, though. Public acknowledgement of volunteers must be done in a way that is respectful and appropriate. Ask volunteers for their consent before recognizing them publicly and make every effort to respect their privacy.

Also, public acknowledgement should not be used as a way to pressure people into volunteering or as a replacement for other forms of appreciation.

Public acknowledgement of volunteers is an important tool in your appreciation toolbox. It’s a way to show volunteers their work is valued and appreciated and can inspire others to get involved in their communities.

By publicly recognizing the contributions of volunteers, we can help to build stronger, more connected communities.

So, the next time you see a volunteer working hard to make a difference, think of a way you can thank them publicly.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.