I am totally convinced that asking for volunteers by recruitment drives, announcements in the church bulletin, or appeals from the platform is very risky and unwise. Too often, it puts us in the awkward position of having to say, “Thanks, but no thanks” to people who step forward with the best of intentions but the worst of qualifications. Once we have asked for help this way, there is no kind way to say, “But I didn’t mean you.”
Asking for volunteers through public appeals always brings to the surface a number of folks who love God but do not have the necessary relational skills or ministry skills to be at the helm.
Another problem with asking for volunteers by way of general appeal is that it tends to devalue the role. It sends the message that there is a shortage of workers and conveys the idea that anyone can do this job. Who wants to volunteer for something that is so unimportant that no one else wants to do it?
Instead, the absolute best way to find good volunteers is to personally ask the right person. When a ministry leader uses this method, it sends a very different message. It elevates the role and conveys an image of honor, prestige, and value. Such volunteers bring a lot of good to the team. Besides, three “good” volunteers will perform better and contribute more to your team than a dozen half-hearted volunteers.
There is NO SHORTAGE of qualified people. There is only a shortage of personally asking the right people. So ministry leaders, walk up behind someone, tap them on the shoulder, and, “make the ask.” You’ll be glad you did.
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