Advertising, Recruitment & Application Process for Volunteers

Once you have a clear idea of the opportunities you can offer volunteers, the next step is to think about the kind of people who would be interested in those roles, how you will attract them to your organisation, and what your application process will look like.

Where to advertise and recruit

Think about the kind of people you want to attract and where you’re most likely to reach them. There are many ways to advertise online through websites and social media, as well as offline through posters or free ads in community magazines. Often, simple local outreach can be just as effective as digital promotion. It’s also a good idea to keep track of how potential volunteers heard about the role, so you can better understand which methods work best.

  • Volunteer Centre Sutton's Volunteer Hub 
  • your own website, social media and newsletters
  • schools and colleges
  • libraries and public buildings
  • dental and doctor surgeries
  • The Carshalton Beeches/The Wallington Directory
  • shop windows
  • job centres
  • word of mouth
  • community centres
  • give talks and presentations to interested groups
  • link in with other community events that attract large numbers of people
  • fêtes and carnivals
  • careers and recruitment fairs
  • Nextdoor.co.uk can be great for recruiting volunteers, especially for local, community based efforts

Moving volunteers from "interested" to "committed"

Your goal is to move from interest to commitment by being responsive, organized, and welcoming. A smooth first experience often makes the difference between someone casually interested and someone who becomes a reliable volunteer. Work out what your steps will be at each stage to make it as smooth and seamless as possible. If you are leading on the earlier stages of recruitment and then handing over to a colleague, be clear within your team at what stage you are handing over.

Once someone responds to your volunteer advert, the next step is to make their experience positive, clear, and welcoming.

1. Respond promptly
Thank them for getting in touch and reply as soon as possible to keep their interest.

2. Share key information
Explain the role, time commitment, location, and any skills, training, or checks involved.

3. Learn about them
Ask about their interest, experience, availability, and any preferences.

4. Arrange a chat
Set up an informal call or meeting to see if the role is a good fit for both sides.

5. Explain next steps
Outline what happens next, such as forms, references, checks, or training.

6. Keep in touch
Stay in contact throughout the process so volunteers feel valued and informed.

Volunteer Centre Sutton has developed our own volunteer pathway - a flowchart which maps out each stage. Download.