Skills for Volunteer Managers

Disclaimer: This article is general information only, not legal advice. If you are unsure, always consult with a legal professional regarding your needs.

There are many skills required as a Volunteer Manager/Coordinator that can help you to get the most out of your volunteer programs. The required skills can be summarised into two key areas for Volunteer Managers: People, and Projects. Both areas require different skills and depending on the size of the organisation the work may be spread out across multiple people.

Managing People

• Human Resource Management – The ability to engage, nurture and support volunteers in a systematic and intentional manner to meet the organisation's strategic objectives.
• Communications, Marketing & Special Events – The ability to create, communicate, deliver, and exchange information that has value to a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
• Training and Talent Development – The ability to build an organisation's capacity through the development of volunteer skills and performance.
• Community Partnership Development – The ability to develop mutually beneficial collaborations with organisations with common interests and goals.
• Leadership & Advising – The ability to manage conflict, coach others, and lead the organisation in change management initiatives related to volunteer involvement.

Managing Programs & Projects

• Program Evaluation & Assessment – The ability to use data to conduct a systematic assessment of the processes and outcomes in order to improve the program’s results.
• Program Design & Risk Management – The ability to develop engaging programs, initiatives, and processes in a safe environtment which align with the organisation's mission and vision.
• Data Management & Analysis – The ability to collect, analyse, and act upon reliable and valid data in order to engage in program monitoring and reporting to stakeholders.
• Program/Project Planning & Management – The ability to define strategy and plan, organise, motivate, and control resources in order to achieve specific, time-limited goals.
• Financial Management – The ability to generate, manage, and control budget and in-kind resources and be responsible stewards of public and private funds.
  
• Flexibility - The ability to respond to changing circumstances in the social environment to accommodate and embrace emerging community needs.