Volunteering

Synergy or Insanity

Synergy– Synergy is a phenomenon that occurs

when people come together for a common cause with a common understanding.

– The sum total of what can be achieved by the group is greater than that which is possible by the individuals.

1 + 1 + 1 < 3

Insanity– is often evident when the synergy in a

group is lost, – active members loose interest and leave– more pressure on a fewer people – remaining members become stressed,

resentful, negative– recruitment becomes more difficult

Relationship

The key to all successful collaborations.

Everyone needs to be on the same page.

Positive Intention • committed to mutual success of

relationships

• maintain non-defensive presence

Honesty

• an openness which allows everyone to feel safe to discuss issues honestly

Accountability

• individuals take responsibility for their actions

• seek solutions rather than blame

Awareness • how one impacts on others

• seek to understand intentions,

concerns and motivations of others

Benevolence

• ability to set aside ones ego to achieve positive outcomes for the greater good

Volunteering Journey

Driver

• responsible for reaching destination safely, in charge of controls,

• motivated by desire to drive success

• need to be good at delegating

Hitchhiker• are after a free ride.

• they can not commit to more.

• motivated by wiifm

• have the potential to be a passenger or driver.

Passenger• trust the driver. • want to go in the same direction. • contribute to the cost of the journey

with their time or money. • potentially a driver or hitchhiker.• motivated by being involved, taking

part, giving back to others

Succession Planning• organisational structure which encourages succession

• allow involvement to evolve, begin with small tasks

• identify/cultivate potential drivers – give a turn at driving

• value volunteers, make organisation a positive place to work

• welcome new people, accept hitchhikers

• provide training, professional development

Communication• be clear about what you want to

achieve• share vision with all involved• encourage participation, ask people to

be involved• walk alongside people in new roles.• be specific about the tasks required.