Change is the only constant today. And if the whole world is changing, how can volunteering stay the same? It can't.
Nothing is more wasteful than to allow volunteers to continue doing something that is no longer the most important thing to do.
I doubt anyone would argue with the truth of the sentences above. But the challenge is to be ready for - even in front of - change, not to be flattened as it rolls over you.
The first step is to become aware of percolating trends likely to have an impact on volunteer involvement in your organization. Keep informed about:
- Cultural, economic, and social conditions and current news affecting the community at large - global, national, local. These affect all volunteers, too.
- Issues in your specific work field or setting.What is changing in what your organization does and how it does it?
- The trends affecting volunteerism in all types of organizations.
Do this by keeping your eyes and ears open, reading publications known for trend spotting, and convening periodic "think tanks" of volunteers to discuss the world around you. Here are some tips for assessing which trends you want to welcome, adapt or avoid:
- Consider possible, probable, and preferable future(s). Keep focused on the preferable ones - that's what volunteering is all about.
- Enlist people who can analyze the issues from different perspectives. Look beyond the "first wave" of anticipated outcomes. (If you tend to be an optimist or a pessimist, force yourself to see the other side.)
- Remember that volunteers have always been the pioneers on the cutting edge of change. So how can volunteers be instrumental in responding to change on behalf of your organization and consumers?
- Recruit experts in the identified trends to volunteer as advisors, strategists, and trainers (for you as well as for organization decision makers).
Find ways to incorporate your knowledge of key trends into overall strategic planning for your organization. Not only will this insure that volunteers are tapped for work that is important today, but it will raise your credibility as a member of senior management.
Identify what is already in your power to do differently and act (don't ask permission to do your job). Pilot test and prove the value of new ideas.
Remember: Taking action and taking no action both carry consequences.