The Onboarding tab depicts a suggested base for an organization’s Volunteer Onboarding Procedure. Despite organizations having different onboarding procedures, we suggest that this list be reviewed to identify if items highlighted can be added to the current onboarding procedure or modified according to organizational needs.

General Orientation Meeting

During the general orientation meeting, new volunteers are expected to learn about their responsibilities, their senior/ lead person, department, and the company’s objectives and goals on a general level. During the course of a volunteer’s work, the organization may be requested to provide a letter of reference, to facilitate the process, it is important to have it clearly defined on paper and mention it during the orientation. It is also important to discuss volunteer expectations and to allow them to share their expectations in relation to the organization. Each volunteer should receive an onboarding package with the relevant volunteer information, organization policies, overview of organization, company’s mission and organizational structure.

Volunteers should be given the chance to work in different types of activities to maintain their interest in their work and, in turn, reduce volunteer turnover. If the organization has the means to allow volunteers to try different volunteer opportunities, it is essential for the information to be shared during the general orientation.

*Please keep in mind that in some circumstances, meeting 1 and 2 can be merged into one single meeting, however, all information described on both meetings should be provided to volunteer.

Orientation Meeting with Lead

After a general orientation, the volunteer should have a meeting with their team lead/ direct report to gain a better understanding of what the department does and what is expected of him/her. This is also a time where access to the relevant tools and software used by the department is given.

*Please keep in mind that in some circumstances, meeting 1 and 2 can be merged into one single meeting, however, all information described on both meetings should be provided to volunteer.

Team Onboarding Meeting

After meetings 1 and 2 have taken place and all necessary house keeping information is given, the volunteer should be introduced to the rest of the team/ department and the individuals s/he will be working with. Each team member should introduce themselves and talk about their role in the organization. It is an opportunity to build a sense of community and camaraderie which is essential for an organization’s long-term success.