Tips for training new volunteers

The below provides Team Leaders with tips on how to train new volunteers.

• Take 5 minutes at the beginning of the shift to explain how the on shift training will work. Ask them how they went with completing the online induction module to gauge their understanding of shift operations.
• It's important to remember that all volunteers will learn at different rates. If you feel like they need more guidance take your time to go through the checklist.
• Give the volunteer an opportunity to practice the tasks after you have demonstrated them. People learn better when they have the opportunity to practice.
• Make sure the volunteer doesn't feel like the training is a test. Our goal is for volunteers to feel confident and competent on shift but they don't need to pass a test to get there, they just need your support!
• Check in with the volunteer after their first shift to see how they found it and if they had any questions. If you haven’t already, confirm with your new volunteer their ongoing availability.