Motivating Volunteers: A 4 Step Process

Step 1. Identify the job to be done. Put it in writing so that you have a clear vision of what needs doing.

Step 2. Select the best person or group for the job. List the qualities and experience you desire.

Step 3. What motivates this person (or these people)? What enticed them to succeed in the past? (Recognition, an award, appreciation, a challenge...) See Volunteer Motivators below for a list of probable motivators.

Step 4. Link the desired outcome with the individual's motivator.

Don't Forget! Motivation is no secret weapon. Everything we do is based on motivation. Even those people we call "selfless" and "altruistic" are acting on motivation- the admirable motivation of the "good feeling".