This is part two of a two-part series on volunteering as a business strategy. In this issue, I discuss tips and tricks for creating a successful volunteer experience. There is a right way and a wrong way to do it, and I’ve done both. Here are ideas that will help you develop your marketing strategy through community involvement:

• Follow your heart. Find an organization that matches your interests and serves the community in a manner you admire. Finding time to volunteer can create long hours as you scramble to make up the time you take away from your business operations. You will feel less burdened by the extra time crunch if you have a heart for the organization’s mission and the cause they serve.
   
• Volunteer strategically. Consider organizations with board members whose businesses serve the same clients you do. For instance, your target client may include building contractors so you may choose to volunteer with an organization such as Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together, or your local Home Builders Association. Working alongside your target client is a great way to build a solid relationship, and people are more likely to do business with someone they know well.
   
• Do your homework on the organization. Are they using donations wisely and are they well run? Will it be good for your business to align with them? What does the general public think about that organization? Your potential customer may choose to do business with you (or not) depending on who you align yourself with. The last thing you want to do is align your reputation or company image with an organization that gets caught in a scandal.
   
• Volunteer in roles that will show off your character and abilities. Will they use your time and talents the way you want them used? If you hate to ask for donations and that’s all they want you to do, you will be miserable. On the other hand, if other committee members or board members see you doing your best work in a role you love, they will be more likely to recommend you. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities out there. Pick one where you shine.
   
• Make sure you are a good fit. Organizational dynamics have everything to do with your success as a volunteer. If you like a collaborative type of leadership style, an executive director who makes all the decisions for you will dampen your spirit. However, some people prefer to be told what the direction is and what to do. It’s okay if you don’t know which style you prefer at first — feel free to experiment. If you find out that you aren’t a great fit due to personalities, philosophical differences, leadership styles, or whatever, RUN! Be honest with the organization, but most of all, be true to yourself. Volunteering in the right organization is rewarding but the wrong fit for you will be pure punishment.
   
• Make sure that you meet all your commitments. People make judgments about how we operate professionally by how they see us work as a volunteer. If you accidentally over-commit, get help quick. It’s not a crime to ask for help — it’s a tragedy if you let your commitments slip and damage your reputation.
   
• Give the organization a time limit. Set a length of time that you will work with them. Consider committing for one year at a time if you are working at a board, leadership, or committee level. Revisit your commitment at the end of the year. Planning your volunteer time on an annual basis when you are making other life plans and goals helps you achieve balance in all the aspects of your life.
   
• Volunteer where you are valued and appreciated. Not every organization deserves you. Smart volunteer organizations understand this formula: Volunteers like to contribute where their ideas are valued. They are likely to stay where they believe in the mission and are actively included. Organizations retain volunteers by creating buy-in and that means allowing them to participate in the decision-making and planning processes.
   
• If you have a spouse, make sure they are understanding and supportive. While it is ideal for a husband and wife to volunteer together, that’s not always possible because of different interests, preferred types of roles, and family responsibilities. Volunteer responsibilities can put pressure on a family when the hours increase close to an event or when meetings take place during normal family time. Always discuss the volunteer role’s task and time load with your spouse before your commit. When they buy in and understand why you feel compelled to participate in the community, they are more understanding and supportive. Deep down, they are really proud of what you’re doing and you should be too!

Not plugged into an organization you love? Start shopping for one now. The sooner you find an organization that aligns with your professional goals, the happier and more successful you'll be professionally