Essential Prescreening Questions to Ask Potential General Volunteers: A Comprehensive Guide

What roles are you interested in, and what skills do you bring?

This question provides an opportunity for the potential volunteer to express their interests and relevant skills they may have. It can help you understand where they would fit best in your team, whether it be as a Stage Manager, part of the Registration team, or a Social Media expert.

How do you handle conflict in a group situation?

Conflicts are inevitable in any group setting. Understanding how a potential volunteer handles conflicts can give you insight into their problem-solving and interpersonal skills. A good volunteer should be able to navigate conflicts in a mature and respectful manner.

How do you handle stressful situations?

Events can get hectic and stressful. A volunteer who can remain calm and productive under pressure can be a valuable asset to your team. Look for examples that demonstrate resilience and adaptability.

What do you like about the event, and how would you contribute to its success?

This question examines the volunteer's knowledge and passion for your event. It also allows them to share ideas on how they can contribute to making the event even better.

Which area do you think you'll excel in, and can you provide an example?

Understanding where a potential volunteer believes they will excel can provide insight into their self-awareness and confidence. It also allows them to share past experiences that demonstrate their abilities.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

This classic question helps gauge a volunteer's self-awareness and honesty. It also can help you identify areas where they may need additional support or training.

Why are you interested in volunteering with us?

This question can reveal a volunteer's motivations and alignment with your organization’s mission and values.

What previous volunteer experience do you have?

Prior volunteer experience can indicate a potential volunteer's familiarity with the demands and rewards of volunteering. It also provides an opportunity for them to share what they learned from previous experiences.

Can you describe a time when you had to work as part of a team?

Teamwork is crucial in a volunteer setting. This question allows potential volunteers to share their experiences and insights into how they work within a team context.

Do you have any physical limitations that we should be aware of?

This question is important for ensuring the health and safety of your volunteers. It can help you identify roles that would be suitable or unsuitable for them.

What is your availability like?

Understanding a potential volunteer’s availability can help you plan and organize your event more effectively.

Are you comfortable with handling responsibilities?

This question can reveal a potential volunteer's reliability and commitment to fulfilling their duties.

Do you have any experience working in a high-pressure environment?

Experience in a high-pressure environment can indicate a potential volunteer's ability to handle stress and maintain productivity during busy times.

Are you comfortable with taking instructions and feedback?

Volunteers should be open to receiving instructions and feedback. This willingness is crucial for growth and for the success of the event.

Can you describe a situation where you had to show initiative?

This question allows you to gauge a potential volunteer's ability to take initiative when necessary, an important skill in any volunteer role.

Are there any specific areas you are interested in volunteering for?

This question can help you understand the volunteer's interests and where they might be most passionate and effective in their volunteer role.

Do you have any certification or special skills that could be beneficial to our event?

Identifying any special skills or certifications can help you utilize your volunteers to their fullest potential, making your event even more successful.