Outreach
Cast a wide net
Reaching the most qualified and diverse applicant pool leads to the most successful placements. You'll want to get the word out in a number of different ways to reach many different audiences.
No matter what your program needs or community context, there are some general outreach guidelines to keep in mind:
- Create a targeted outreach plan that matches your recruitment resources and needs. Count on spending a quarter to one-half of your time on recruitment, four to six months before your members begin service.
- Research your options. There are many ways to communicate your opportunities with your potential applicants–be sure to choose the ones that they use.
- Break your plan into specific tasks and timelines, so you can build momentum over a longer period of time.
- Sell your program and the service experience: Emphasize your program's strengths and accomplishments. Consider how to appeal to different populations, like Baby Boomers or recent college grads.
- Tap into your AmeriCorps/VISTA alumni and other volunteers for recruiting ideas and testimonials to use in outreach. One way to find AmeriCorps alumni is through the AmeriCorps Alums Web site. Interested in connecting with Peace Corps alums? Click here.
- Take time to evaluate your efforts at the end of your recruitment period, so you can build on your successes and learn from your missteps.
- Share your enthusiasm and passion for your program: it's contagious!
Resources
- Using My AmeriCorps to Recruit Applicants
- Creating your own web presence
- Recruiting Online
- Using Local Media
- Creating Posters and Flyers
- Recruiting at Community Events
- Member Candidate FAQ
- Create a Press Release
Go on to Recruiting Tactics
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