Four questions to ask if you are planning on volunteering...

If you are thinking of joining an organisation as a volunteer, here are four key questions you might think about asking...

1. What made you join the organisation? 

This will give you some idea of the passion that people have for the organisation.  It will help you figure out if the cause is a fit with your motivation for volunteering.  

2. If there was someone in the role previously, where did that person go?  Why did they go?

This could provide you with an invaluable insight to how the organisation supports volunteers and manages progression.

3. Looking at the team I would be joining, tell me one of their greatest achievements over the past 12 months? 

This provides an opportunity for the organisation to relate a success story. Of course, if they can’t think of one…
 
4. How does the organisation create and maintain its culture? Could you provide me with any specific examples of culture building or team building activities? 

The culture of an organisation can be one of the greatest plus points in helping you make your decision to join. By asking for some specific examples you are gaining a real insight to see if the culture fit is right for you. 

There will be many other questions that you will have up your sleeve, but these relate to the human side of the organisation and will provide you with a better opportunity to decide if it’s a perfect fit for you to give your time and expertise.

If you are a volunteer involving organisation, could you you answer these questions?