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The Upcoming Leader: Recruiting Volunteers Fast

Submitted by James Higginbotham on May 6, 2009 – 5:51 amNo Comment

Bootstrapping can be difficult, especially for a leader that is starting a new effort. You may not have volunteers yet. How does a leader handle building their team by themselves, starting from ground zero?

Here is the secret:Don’t overcommit yourself or your team. Focus on a single problem. Consistently address it. In the process begin to talk about the amazing things God is doing with your new role. This will plant a vision in the minds of those you share your story.

Here are some other tips for recruiting volunteers fast:

Paint the vision. God called you as a leader for a reason. Explain what God is leading you to do and why you are doing it.

Don’t be desperate. Talking about your needs rather than the amazing things God is doing will simply drive people away, not attract them. People want vision, not desparation.

Know who you need. If you manage to get people interested, tell them what kinds of opportunities exist. Don’t just tell them to “show up” next Sunday. People don’t like uncertainty. They want to know that they are wanted, not just a quick solution to a problem.

Be willing to accept “no” as an answer. If someone says “no”, thank them for their time, ask them if you they know of anyone that may be a better fit, and move on.

Don’t ask for help from those already giving their time. As a new team, you’ll want people with fresh minds and energy. So, don’t ask those already overcommitted to do more. It will hurt you and the volunteer.

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