Gettin’ It Done

So, how does a small non-profit organization with five full-time employees and a handful of part-time employees pull off, on a normal year, an in-person, 3-day event for 2000-ish of their closest friends? Then, this past year, turn said event into a 3-day online event, plan it in under six months, and draw an audience of exponentially more than ever before? Well, I’m so glad you asked!

The work we do would not be possible without the hard work of the small, dedicated staff that we do have. Let’s just state that up front. You need to have staff members who are committed to your cause; your mission, vision, and values need to run through their veins. If you do, not only will none of your staff work a day in their lives, but miracles can happen. If you don’t, I strongly urge you to re-evaluate what you’ve got going on.

Secondly, we have an amazing group of volunteers. Yes, we have some of those tried-and-true people who have been with us for years, but we also work hard to incorporate a large portion of new people to the team. With an online event, there is no shortage of work to be done. Having the additional manpower of volunteers was vital in multiplying the ability of the staff members to “get it done!”

You don’t work with volunteers, nor do you know how to begin inviting them to join you in your adventure and share the workload? You’re in luck. This is a lifetime passion of mine. I’ve worked with thousands of volunteers over the last 13+ years of my event career. I’d love to share with you how to get a program off the ground. Please email me and let’s get you some relief! I am certain there are people in your circle of influence who would love to lend a hand and take some of the pressure off you.

Yes, even an online event has work for a volunteer. There are so many details and responsibilities that someone needs to oversee. Most can be done remotely like a chat moderator, answering questions that come from your “help” button, responding to basic tech questions, and assist your speakers and sponsors with their needs, etc.. There’s a decent list of opportunities to partner with; your association members, local church, or non-profit organization’s supporters.

Do you or your organization utilize the talents of volunteers? I’d love to hear one piece of advice you have for working with a team like this.
Please comment below or shoot me an email.

I’d love to share what I’ve learned with other event planners, do you know any? Please like it and share
this blog on social media!

PS… have since written a book called Cultivating a Healthy Volunteer Team. Get your copy today!