Try the four step challenge

Have a one-to-one chat with the potential volunteer to discuss volunteering and the possible roles/tasks available, outlining what each opportunity would involve – including flagging any training requirements and being open about time commitments. 

You might want to ask about:

• What made them curious about volunteering in the first place
• What sort of tasks they might want to do
• What they hope to get from the experience 
• What sort of skills, experiences and interests they have
• How much time can they give

It's always good to meet with someone already doing similar role:

• Ask someone in a similar role – perhaps from the wider group or District – if they’d be up for having a chat
• If yes, match them with the potential volunteer, so they have a chance to shadow them or simply ask a few questions 
• Aim to give the potential volunteer a better understanding of what the role might be like – including chatting about what sort of responsibilities it entails, who they’ll be supporting and who they’ll be working closely with

Every role comes with unique opportunities to join in:

• Your potential volunteer may be joining a team of other volunteers they can meet up with – like an Executive Committee or District meeting
• They might take on a more independent role, which may involve meeting with a lead volunteer to establish how they see the role – if you're that lead volunteer, find a way to get the new volunteer to join in and meet others, whether that’s done face to face or online

Now’s the time to review how your potential volunteer got on:

• How did they find Scouts?
• Did they enjoy the role? 
• Would they like to continue with that role or task?
• Would they like to try another?
• Do they know someone else who might like to try the four step challenge?  

Answer any questions they have about volunteering and remember they can easily change roles or try something else if the role. It’s important we make this a really positive experience – even if they decide not to volunteer, they may come back in the future.