We often work in groups with paid staff or volunteers to complete tasks, serve on adhoc committees, or simply work day-to-day in our departments. As leaders we know the importance of effectively working together. Here are just a few tips on how to work as a successful team.

Explain to each person why he or she were asked to be a part of the team. Allow time for members to bond. Make sure everyone shares the vision and purpose of the team. Be sensitive to the individual styles of each member. Maintain open and frequent communication. Make sure everyone understands his or her own tasks and that each person is accountable for success. Send agendas or discussion items to members before team meetings. Make sure discussion is limited to the purpose of the team at meetings. Take written notes at meetings. Send reminders to members explaining what their tasks are and when they should be completed. Be available as a resource person to help members succeed. Evaluate the effectiveness of the team – continually.

Jeff L. Brudney, no stranger to mangers of government volunteer programs, has written a number of excellent articles over the years. "The Effective Use of Volunteers: Best Practices for the Public Sector," (Law and Contemporary Problems, 1999 - http://www.law.duke.edu) is one worth reading.

This can be downloaded as a PDF at: https://www.law.duke.edu/journals/lcp/downloads/LCP62DAutumn1999P219.pdf.

The National Association of Volunteer Programs in Local Government (NAVPLG) is an association of administrators, coordinators and directors of volunteer programs in local government. Its purpose is to strengthen volunteer programs in local government through leadership, advocacy, networking and information exchange. NAVPLG is an affiliate of the National Association of Counties and is seeking affiliate status with the National League of Cities. Cost is $20 for individuals and $75 for group local government membership. An affiliate membership is $25 and is intended for those who are not local government members but may have an interest in the group. There is a quarterly newsletter, national network, and access to NACo's Volunteerism Project. For more information contact Robin Popik, who is a Volunteer Resource Supervisor. She can be reached by phone at 972-941-7114. Be sure to mention you read about this in Volunteer Today.