Spoiling Your Volunteers

I love being spoiled. My wife has spoiled me for over 32 years. My daughters have spoiled their dad all their life, my employees spoil me at the office on a regular basis. Because I like it so much I want to spoil others. A great goal for any kidmin leader is to purpose in your heart to spoil your volunteers outside their classrooms as well as in. You’ve heard me say this before, you gain those you serve. It’s a spiritual law. Christ Jesus came to serve not to be served.

 Here’s my top 10 List for you to stand out in your church as a leader who serves their volunteers 

1. Return all phone calls and answer all emails quickly. It’s hard to believe that this one step will single handily set you apart from most busy leaders in America. It’s also the best way I know to communicate you care about those who serve you
When you are at your desk answer your phone. If you have voice mail change your message to inform people if you are unable to return their message quickly. Also if your phone is not answered by a live person always leave your extention number. When you’re calling others especially their cell phone find out whether your telephone call is welcome or intrusive. Always ask if it’s a good time to talk.

2. Remember to say please and thank you. These two words are still magic words to cause volunteers to feel appreciated. Always write a personal thank-you note for special favors within two days. When you can write a personal note when you sign your name on form letters. 

3. Never miss a deadline. If it looks like you’re going to be late, negotiate and change it. If you can’t change it, get some help. Never promise performance unless you can deliver. Always under promise, over deliver.

4. When you communicate in person communicate with eye contact. Always look people in the eye. Call your volunteers by name.

5. Solicit criticism and accept it without being defensive. I constantly ask others how can we improve what we do. Smart leaders listen to their volunteers. 

6. Repent quick. Never be afraid of saying “I’m sorry” or I apologize”, Admit any error immediately. Report it to the person who can solve or repair it the fastest.

7. Before beginning any discussion, clearly state the purpose, the desired outcome, and the key objective. Before entering a serious negotiation, decide what you are willing to give up.

8. Keep up to date on the latest technologies. Learn as much as you can on new developments. Supply your volunteers with whatever resources, equipment and materials that they need to excel.

9. Raise everyone’s educational and interest level by distributing a timely article or clever quotation. Show your volunteers you really care and buy them a copy of one of my books.

10. Don’t plan too many meetings. Use other ways to communicate other than meetings. Desire to be a family church that allows for family time.