Benefits of a Job Description

Attracting the right volunteers can be tricky. Volunteer job descriptions can help you attract and hire the right volunteers. They let volunteers know what is expected of them, and they also save you time.

Sets Expectations

Job descriptions create a blueprint for volunteer positions. Providing details also gives volunteers confidence. However, too little information leads to hiring the wrong volunteers. As a result, volunteers can feel unappreciated. Volunteers need to feel valued. Since they are unpaid, firing a volunteer is a huge letdown. To avoid this, set detailed expectations.

Narrows the Volunteer Pool

Without detailed descriptions, tons of volunteers apply for roles. Interest in a role is great, but interest from the wrong volunteers is not. Detailed descriptions help cut back on applicants. They also attract qualified volunteers. Your main goal should be attracting qualified volunteers. Sorting through dozens of unqualified volunteers is stressful. So, do yourself a favor and write a clear job description.

Makes the Hiring Process More Efficient

Job descriptions aid in efficiency. They save you from having to sort through unqualified applicants. In turn, you can select the right volunteer faster. There’s no need to over-advertise a role when a simple job description could do it for you. To hire volunteers in a productive way, create job descriptions.

How to Write a Volunteer Job Description

In need of a job description? Creating one is simple. Here’s what to include.

Job Title

The job title should reflect the position. Job titles add value to roles. For example, instead of the title “Clerk,” use “Office Assistant” instead.

Job Impact

How will the role impact the volunteer? Also, include how he or she will help the organization.

Volunteer Benefits

Will the volunteer gain new skills in the role? Will he or she meet new people in the community? The role should offer specific benefits for the volunteer.

Responsibilities

List job duties. Don’t leave any responsibilities out of the description. Be specific.

Qualifications

What experience should the volunteer have?

Time Commitment

List the time commitment. Include certain tasks like meetings and events. As well as tasks, add the hours required per week. It’s also a good idea to include how long the role will last. For example, three months, six months, or ongoing.

Location

Where will the candidate be volunteering? Is travel also required?

Security Checks

Does the volunteer need a background check?

How to Apply

Tell the candidate how to apply. For example, you could tell applicants to apply on www.handsonmaui.com, under the volunteer tab. In addition, add deadlines.

Ready to get started? Make things easier on yourself — download our Volunteer Job Description Template now!