The interview is your chance to really get to know a volunteer candidate, find out what skills they bring to the table, and learn how they might mesh with your team. You should also be ready to answer an applicant’s questions about the Project timeline, objectives, expected outcomes, challenges, and anything else you think they need to know in order to plan accurately. Here are five of the most important questions to ask during the interview process:
1. What specific experience and skills do you have that equip you to tackle this particular Project at our organization?
Asking how an applicant’s experiences have prepared them for your Project can help you determine how qualified they are and how well they understand the goals based on your description (giving you the chance to clarify any misunderstandings).
2. What draws you to our specific organization and/or Project area?
Why is this applicant interested in partnering with you? Ideally, you’ll find a volunteer who is as excited about your mission as they are about the skills they’ll be using.
3. How available are you to work with us on this Project?
It’s important to get on the same page about availability and time constraints upfront. If a volunteer sounds like a great fit for everything but the timing, try to stay in touch! Schedules change and there might be a future Project they'll be ideal for.
4. Have you ever volunteered in the past? Describe your experiences with volunteering or social good movements in general.
While prior experience reflects a volunteer’s commitment to donating their professional skills, many qualified applicants are now looking for skilled volunteering opportunities for the first time. Asking about their general experience volunteering will tell you a lot about how they approach this kind of work.
5. Are you prepared to volunteer remotely? Do you have the technology available and experience needed to work on this Project from home?
It’s important to find a volunteer who is comfortable communicating and working virtually.