When Volunteers Criticize: Beware of Emotional Triggers

 

In a prior post, When a Volunteer is Cruel to Staff, I discussed the most difficult of volunteers. When staff encounters harsh criticism and feels disrespected it leads to emotions such as anger and frustration. This raises the question: How does one respond when emotionally triggered? One can learn to speak skillfully when confronted by such as person. Here are two approaches to use in such a situation:

Using these techniques, and training your volunteers to use them, can significantly reduce tension and conflicts.


Related articles:

• When a Volunteer is Cruel to Staff: My Encounter with Mr. Cruel & Critical 
• Dealing with Volunteers...It's a Tough Business!
• Finding the Confidence to Deal with Volunteers
• The Case of the Members Who Griped but Just Wanted to Help
• Get In Sync with Your Volunteers    

Need help building a productive partnership with your volunteers or chapters? Give me a call!