To ensure future reliability, I would first have a constructive conversation with the volunteer to understand the reason behind the missed deadline. Setting clear expectations, providing better support, and implementing regular check-ins can help track progress. Additionally, offering guidance on time management and ensuring they have the necessary resources can improve accountability and commitment to deadlines.

I will Start by having a one-on-one conversation with the volunteer to understand the reasons behind the missed deadline. This can help identify any obstacles they faced and shows that I value their input. Set Clear Expectations: Ensure that all deadlines, project goals, and responsibilities are clearly defined from the outset. I will use written documentation to outline these expectations, so both parties have a reference point. Divide larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks with their own deadlines. This can help prevent overwhelm and make it easier to track progress.

In unstable environments like Syria, managing volunteer delays is a key part of our risk management strategy. Here’s how we address this: Understanding Needs – We meet with volunteers to discuss delays and find solutions together. Flexible Deadlines – Volunteers set their own deadlines within the project timeline. Adaptive Planning – Our work plan remains flexible to accommodate challenges. Regular Monitoring and hierarchical Structure – Each lead oversees 3-4 volunteers to ensure accountability. Recognition & Motivation – Certificates and closing events boost morale and commitment. These strategies strengthen volunteer engagement, enhance accountability, and foster a positive remote work culture.

Arrange a meeting with the volunteer to see how to help them stay on top of tasks. Tackle this collaboratively as tasks like this are generally a group effort. Is it a case of breaking things down into smaller tasks or having regular check ins to see how much progress they have made and if they need any support or clarification. Volunteers also have lives outside of the role they are fulfilling for free so is there a way to help them balance this role and their home life in a better way?

Initially by offering support and engagement with your colleague to understand what is needed to achieve the outcome. Understand their concerns and define intended remedial action. Volunteers are essential to most charities ability to achieve resilience.

What was the remote volunteers 'work' history? If their history was erratic, full of excuses or substandard, then it's the managers fault for assigning the project. Did the project had staged deadlines. If not, why not. As for the reticent volunteer, match them with a volunteer with motivation. Hopefully, the motivation will rub off.

My initial thought is that the only thing you can do is put the correct people in place - as a Business Manager, it is imperative to address the missed deadline with the remote volunteer promptly and professionally. First, have a constructive discussion to understand the reasons for the delay and offer support or resources if needed. Emphasize the importance of meeting deadlines and the impact on the project and team. Set clear expectations moving forward and establish a plan for ensuring future reliability. Implement strategies such as regular check-ins, clear instructions, accountability systems, and positive reinforcement. Communication, clear expectations, and ongoing support are key to fostering future reliability in remote volunteers.

When a remote volunteer misses a key deadline, I don’t jump to blame. I revisit expectations, clarify the “why” behind the task, and add regular check-ins without micromanaging. Often, missed deadlines come from unclear direction or lack of support not bad intent. With the right tools and trust, reliability improves fast.