TAO/Working with Volunteer Instructors/Do’s & Don’t’s

Results of a brainstorming session with Kai Grabenhorst (SeniorWeb NL), Alfons Bühlmann (Seniorweb CH) and Elvira Schmidt (Wikimedia DE):

Do's

 * to pick them up where their current interests are (e.g. hobby clubs)
 * to give seniors the impression to feel themselves at the centre of society (up to date & modern)
 * catchy, informative and clear website

Don't's

 * not to emphasize membership too much (attachment has a negative image)
 * not to raise false expectations

Do's

 * interesting newsletter
 * training
 * community management (planning and organization of concrete activities)
 * animation and guidance
 * to address them personally
 * to propose combinations and links to related activities
 * to help them overcome any inhibitions

Don't's

 * not to carry internal conflicts to the outside
 * fights vs. factual differences
 * illoyality among staff members
 * no time to get oneself accustomed
 * not to let somebody go without taking care of him/her
 * charge for services that are too expensive or too cheap