Orientation and Training
Orientation & Training
How are volunteers welcomed to their new work? Orientation is part of the welcome for a volunteer. It shows volunteers where they fit in to the organisation and gives them practical information they will need to function effectively. Some of the things an orientation package may include are:
-A tour of the workspace and introductions to co-workers and/or clients.
-Information about the mission and mandate of the organisation and a description of the programs and services.
-History of the organisation: How did it start? How did it evolve to where it is now. This kind of information fosters a clear connection with the mission and helps volunteers represent the organisation to others.
-An explanation of the organisational structure (for example, is it a hierarchy or a collective?). Who reports to whom (show lines of accountability and authority within the organisation)? What is the size of the entire organisation?
-Introduction to the practical aspects of the work space: where will the volunteer be working, where are supplies kept, what equipment is used, where are washrooms - do they need a key, is there an alarm system - do they need an access code, how do they answer the telephone, etc. In short, the basic everyday things new volunteers will need to know to do their jobs.
-Information about any record-keeping that may be required such as logging hours or scheduling; timelines for training or upcoming events; probation periods and evaluation methods.
-Putting together a written orientation document can be a good way to get some of the general information together to present to a new volunteer.
-Orientation checklists are one way to ensure all the desired steps are covered in an orientation process. This can be particularly helpful if the orientation duties are shared by several people.
A sound orientation process will pay off in a variety of ways that include:
- Making a volunteer feel welcome.
Training
Training is often one of the most appreciated benefits a volunteer can receive. It can be a great motivator, keeping people interested and challenged, as well as enhancing skills.
Developing training sessions that can be undertaken by a group can also be a good team-building exercise, giving people an opportunity to interact in a context different from the usual work tasks.
Training does not have to be expensive. Look at local resources, including your own volunteers! A working lunch once a month with a guest speaker sharing their expertise on a relevant topic is an informal and effective way to offer training. Watch a video together as a group and discuss it later. Take a field trip to visit local places that are relevant to the work you are doing.
Training sometimes gets put to one side in a non-profit group with limited resources, as people struggle to meet everyday demands and pressures of "getting the job done". It is, however, one of the most critical investments an organisation can make in its people and its quality of service.