In today’s job market, having an employee volunteer program (EVP) is a smart way to attract talented, valuable employees. The majority of job seekers in 2016 (67%) sought out companies that offered employee volunteer opportunities. Similarly, 55% of job seekers would prioritize a vibrant EVP over salary when choosing an employer. Finally, 70% of workers stated they would be more loyal to a company that helps them contribute to important causes.
It’s clear that having an attractive EVP can be a helpful recruiting tool, which is why we’ve put together tips on how you can bring in top talent using an EVP.
ADVERTISE YOUR EVP IN THE JOB DESCRIPTION
Where you typically list other benefits like flexible schedules, 401k contributions, or paid leave, be sure to list the details of your volunteer program. If applicable, specify the amount of paid volunteer time off (VTO). Outline group volunteer activities and other pertinent details. You might link to a site or blog that tracks your company’s volunteer efforts so job seekers can learn more about your EVP.
WHERE TO ADVERTISE YOUR EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Your EVP should have a dedicated section on your website where you can highlight projects that your company supports and nonprofits you work with. This space can also spotlight hardworking volunteers and celebrate goals that your EVP has recently met. You might link to the EVP site on your company’s About Us page or Careers page as well.
In addition to your website, plan to post information about your EVP on social media regularly. Social media is a great place to recognize employees involved in your company’s volunteering program. If your company is in the middle of a project like collecting goods or fundraising, you can post updates on how the EVP is meeting its goals. These types of posts show potential employees that you have an active and enthusiastic volunteering program.
You can spread the word about your EVP offline, too. Increase visibility for your program by taking out ads thanking your nonprofit partner in local magazines or journals. Nominate your EVP for local awards for additional exposure. Finally, encourage your employees to wear corporate T-shirts when they volunteer.
REMEMBER TO KEEP YOUR NEW EMPLOYEES INFORMED
Once you’ve attracted new employees eager to join your EVP, don’t forget to keep them informed. Include details of your EVP in the employee handbook, employee benefits section of your intranet, any verbal or PowerPoint presentations during orientation, and in new employee literature during orientation. Finally, your new employees might be excited to join the EVP but nervous. Choose an existing member of the employee volunteer team (EVT) to make new employees feel welcome. Each month or every few months, this team member can email or speak to the new employees, and invite them to participate in the next activity.
If you want to create your own EVP intiative, NobleHour can help!
Since 2007, NobleHour has proven to be the volunteer management solution for organizations across the nation. Our plug ‘n play software connects companies, schools and individuals with nonprofits. Volunteer, measure the good you’re doing, and share it with others. It’s that simple.
With offices in Lakeland, FL, and Portland, OR, the we are dedicated to empowering good in communities across the country.
By NobleHour Staff:
Allison Hale
Director of Marketing
TreeTop Commons
Portland, Oregon
Allison is the Director of Marketing for TreeTop Commons, and its products; NobleHour and Collaboratory. A Portland native, Allison volunteers regularly for community nonprofits that support sustainability programs, and at her childrens’ school teaching art literacy. |
