My husband and I volunteer on the worship team at our small country church. We all do our best to contribute our gift towards leading the worship. We spend hours during the week learning the songs which is difficult without the music. We are committed to be there every Sunday year-round.
Church environments like work cultures can suffer when people criticize, make simple requests difficult and won’t forgive. It makes it hard to work together and easy to forget why we are here. People do not understand the value of others until they have made the same type of commitment.
It’s especially important when you work with volunteers. They are not paid to be there and come to work from a place deep in their heart. My husband and I joined the worship team because we wanted to sing for the Lord.
Volunteers are special because they do not have to be there. They choose to come because they see a need and want to fill it, often answering to a higher calling. If you treat them right, they will be your best workers.
Here’s how to build a group of committed volunteers.
- Tell them often how much you appreciate them.
- Give them the support they need to do their job.
- Empower them to do their job.
- Listen to their concerns or suggestions knowing they are trying to make things better.
- Be flexible and receptive to other things in their lives they feel are more important.
- Show you care by talking with them about their lives.
- Always speak in a kind voice especially when things go wrong.
Sunday, our minister told us how much he appreciated us. He acknowledged the hours we spend practicing. This small gesture gave us the energy to keep coming.
I had to learn how the sound system operated from the stage and how to blend with the other singers. The worship leader spent time working with me one-on-one to master it.
When our mics are not at the right level, our worship leader told us to work with the sound person to get it set correctly.
Remember, they want to be there, and they take pride in outcome. Even if their suggestions are not be feasible, thank them for their effort.
They are volunteers because they want the flexibility to spend time with family or travel. Be generous with your praise and thank them letting you know when they are unavailable.
Take time to talk with them about the things important in their lives. Ask them about their trip or about their family. They volunteer for the socialization as much as fulfilling a need. Let them know you are a friend.
Good volunteers are hard to find. They will want to continue to work for you if you correct them with a gentle voice. Treat them with the respect they deserve. Remember, we all make mistakes.
Volunteers keep things running, especially in churches. They pick up the slack and fill in when needed. They are special people.
What do you do to show appreciation to your volunteers?
Warmly,
Jean
Jean Brownlie is a certified trainer and hybrid consultant with a listening ear for perceived needs and reasonable voice for growing your business. Click the box below to learn more about how she can help you grow your people.
