Featured CWM Division Article

Submitted by Kyle Sheldon Chandler on 8/17/2010 5:59:18 PM   Last updated by Kyle Sheldon Chandler on 8/17/2010 6:02:52 PM

A Farewell to Volunteers
by Cynthia D'Amour, MBA


In Donald's chapter, volunteering on a committee is seen as a privilege - not open to just anyone.

You have to apply for appointment in order to be allowed to give official time to the chapter.

There are a few opportunities to periodically help out - but the committees get all the perks and fame.

For two years, Donald worked hard on the committee.

He brought fresh ideas to the table and worked hard on committee projects.

Donald discovered his work on the committee was done when he was not appointed for a third year.

To add to the hurt, as he rolled off the committee he didn't hear a word from the chair.
  • No thanks.
  • No we'll miss you.
  • Nothing.
(Donald did get the generic form letter sent to all volunteers who helped in the
last year - whoopee!)

The lack of appreciation or even noticing he wasn't going to be around anymore stung.

Donald is closing his two year experience filled with disappointment.

Let's get this out on the table first...

Such a rigid approach to volunteering is old school in many ways.

It's definitely not a growth-orientated process.

That aside, personal recognition from the chair needed only a few minutes.
  • A short call.
  • A card sent via snail mail.
  • Or even simple email.
Donald deserved better. The lack of acknowledgement was mean.

I'm sure the chair did not have ill intentions; however, as a leader, lack of action speaks as loudly as action at times.

When someone agrees to volunteer for you they are trusting you will value their effort.

Volunteers come with different expectations for appreciation.

As a leader, your job is to appreciate volunteers in a way meaningful to them - which may be different than your personal preferences.
  • What kind of job do your committee chairs do in acknowledging volunteers who worked with them?
  • Do your volunteers feel appreciated?
  • How do you know?
(Do you agree or disagree with what I have to say? A shortened version of this story is on my blog at http://cynthiadamour.com Feel free to bring your comments there.)

Cynthia D’Amour, MBA, founder of the Chapter Leaders Playground is the author of several books including The Lazy Leader's Guide to Outrageous Results and is a frequent speaker at leadership events.

IAAP provides you with a broad selection of materials to aid in the operation of your chapter. Not only will your chapter grow and benefit, but it will help you and your fellow chapter members get the most from your IAAP membership. If your chapter is serious about growth and making the most of your IAAP opportunity, you can't be without the valuable information the CWM Division offers our chapters and members to help build strong chapters.  Check out the "Professional Resources" link to access templates, ideas, and information from the CWM Division and many other chapters, divisions, and IAAP.

To contact the CWM Division by phone: 1.719.357.7CWM (1.719.357.7296)

CWM DIVISION MISSION:  To be the link between the International Association of Administrative Professionals® (IAAP®) and CWM Division members and to support IAAP's objectives and goals, enrich career development through educational opportunities, and encourage and facilitate the professional growth of others. 


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