Volunteers often altruistically serve out of passion/compassion. • Affirm why the volunteer serves and thank them for their goodheartedness. • Ask the volunteer to explain their understanding of the task and their action/s to achieve it. • Use the volunteer’s position description, asking them compare the desired work with their actions (essentially a guided self-evaluation). • An insightful volunteer may see the disparity/ies between the desired work and their actions, suggesting ways they might bring their actions in line with the desired task. • If the volunteer does not see the disparity/ies: explain it/them; guide a discussion about ways to achieve compliance; get their agreement; and promise support. • Schedule a follow-up meeting!

When a volunteer steps out of bounds, it is essential to address the issue promptly and diplomatically. I would start by acknowledging their enthusiasm and contributions, then clearly reiterate the project's goals, objectives, and boundaries. Diplomacy is a top priority when handling the issue. Next, I would provide specific feedback on what is not aligning and offer guidance on how to get back on track. If necessary, I would revisit roles and responsibilities to ensure clarity and prevent overstepping. I will encourage open communication, active listening, and a solutions-focused approach to regain control and ensure the project concludes successfully.

Volunteers are wonderful, but they are free agents. If a volunteer is out of bounds, it may be due to unclear expectations or a lack of volunteer buy-in. Show humility and address the first issue. Encourage the volunteer to grow personally by stepping back in bounds, which addresses the second issue. Note: keep your eyes and ears open. This role might be too small for their abilities, and they may be ready for more responsibility or a different role once they have proven themselves as a team player.

1. Communicate Clearly and Promptly Schedule a One-on-One Meeting: Talk privately with the volunteer to understand their perspective and explain your concerns. Clarify Roles and Responsibilities: Reinforce the specific tasks and boundaries that were agreed upon. Ensure they understand the impact their actions have on the project and the team. 2. Re-establish Expectations Restate Project Objectives: Emphasize the overall goals and how each role contributes to success. Set Clear Guidelines: Outline what behaviors or actions are acceptable and what falls outside the agreed scope. 3. Provide Constructive Feedback . Offer Guidance: Suggest ways the volunteer can channel their enthusiasm or skills in ways that benefit the project.

In my experience, having a one on one meeting is important to emphasize the goals of the project. This clarifies any misunderstanding of what is expected. It also provides an opportunity to answer any questions the volunteer may have. Once a clear understanding is reached, it is a good time to encourage your volunteer to continue doing a good job. Remind her/him that you are always available, if needed.

Volunteers always feel the need to do more, go over, and prove their passion. To ensure that this attitude doesn't affect the success of the project and the tempo within the group, communication is key, as I always tell my volunteers. If you feel you can contribute more, open up. If it is overwhelming, also share your thoughts. That way, there will be balanced energy within the project group. Most times our projects are on the spot types, as such we don't have in-depth policy and role guidelines, it is advisable to always have a meeting to keep up with missing guidelines.

It’s very important to have a clearly documented volunteer agreement with roles and responsibilities including conflict of interest well outlined. At inception before the volunteer signs the agreement they need to be oriented and given an opportunity to ask for clarification in areas they do not understand. On going check in meetings will also enhance compliance.

When volunteers overstep their boundaries, it’s important to address the issue promptly while maintaining a positive and supportive environment. -> Clearly define roles and responsibilities in orientation sessions or handbooks to prevent misunderstandings. -> Have Open and Respectful Conversations: If a volunteer is exceeding their role, discuss the matter privately, reinforcing expectations while acknowledging their enthusiasm. -> Provide Ongoing Support and Check-ins: Regular feedback sessions help volunteers stay aligned with project goals while making them feel valued. -> If a volunteer is eager to do more, explore opportunities where their skills can be better utilized without disrupting the project structure.

It is about speaking directly with truth and love, but with clarity of boundaries and responsibilities involved. If it is a great idea can remind a protocol to follow to properly share as a constructive volunteer member of a team or body. Ephesians 4:24-29. Must clarify that volunteering is a humble position without authority delegated in most cases. It is a ministry of helps involving collaboration and cooperation. Serving humbly under authority. Colossians 3:23

A talk should happen between the two. Ask the reason why do what was done. Tell what is the standard protocol and let the volunteer understand the positive and negative consequences of the action - each one should be given the opportunity to lay out their perspectives and how it can influence the outcome of the project. Both can learn from one another.