Volunteer Selection Tips: Find the Right Helpers for Your Church

Choosing volunteers can feel like a guessing game, but it doesn’t have to be. A simple checklist and a few conversational questions can separate the eager from the unreliable. Below you’ll find clear steps you can use this week, whether you’re planning a soup kitchen or a youth group.

What to Look for in a Volunteer

First, focus on attitude. A smile, a willingness to learn, and a respectful tone often matter more than a perfect resume. Ask candidates why they want to help – genuine interest shows up in specific answers, not generic statements like “I want to give back.”

Second, match skills to tasks. If you need someone to set up chairs, look for a person who’s comfortable with physical work. For fundraising calls, pick someone with good phone manners and confidence. Don’t over‑complicate it; a short conversation can reveal the right fit.

Third, check for reliability. Small commitments, like a one‑hour greeting shift, are a good test. If they show up on time and follow through, you’ve found a dependable starter. Reliability beats enthusiasm when you need people to show up week after week.

Steps to Make the Selection Process Easy

1. **Create a quick application** – a one‑page form that asks for name, contact, availability, and a short “Why do you want to volunteer?” line. Keep it short so people actually fill it out.

2. **Invite a chat** – a 10‑minute coffee or phone call works better than a formal interview. Use it to hear their story and gauge energy.

3. **Assign a starter task** – give them a clear, low‑stakes job. This lets you see how they work with the team and if they follow directions.

4. **Give feedback quickly** – let them know what they did well and where they can improve. Positive feedback encourages repeat involvement.

5. **Keep a volunteer log** – track who did what, when, and how they performed. This record helps you spot the most reliable helpers for bigger projects.

Remember, the goal isn’t to find a perfect person; it’s to build a team that learns together. A little patience at the start saves a lot of hassle later. If someone slips up, use it as a coaching moment rather than a reason to cut them off.

Finally, celebrate the volunteers. A simple thank‑you, a shout‑out at the next service, or a small treat goes a long way. When people feel valued, they’re more likely to stay and bring friends along.

With these tips, you’ll stop guessing and start matching the right people to the right tasks. Your church’s projects will run smoother, and the volunteers will enjoy being part of the team. Happy selecting!

Gareth Sheffield

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