Think of VolunteerMT.org and the information you post here as another marketing tool. Yes, this is a site to recruit volunteers. But you could also use the site to tell the story of work you do in our community. People who want to volunteer are your audience. Make sure you are talking to them.
- On your agency page, write using language that engages potential volunteers. Defaulting to general marketing language is too easy. Talk about your work, why it is important and what outcomes you are seeing. Similar to how you write for donors. Talk about how you need people to help you do that work. Show them what they can help you accomplish by volunteering their time and talent with you. And, don't forget what's in it for them. What will they get out of the experience.
- When you post a need, consider your headline carefully. Use language that shows the impact a volunteer can have in the community. Instead of saying, "Volunteers Needed for Building Projects." Say, "Help build homes for low-income families."
- There are many good organizations out there. Make sure your prospects can learn as much as they want and need to make a decision. Add photos and videos showing volunteers or the recipients of your services. Include graphics about special events and fundraisers. Add links to social media, your website or any relevant articles.
Yes, you can find volunteers and track their hours using VolunteerMT.org. But, also use it as another way to reach people with your marketing message.
For help with the site or specific marketing ideas, contact me.
