Any major convention operator knows that these high-touch events rely on local volunteers for smooth operations. Opportunities to assist on-site with tasks like greeting delegates at the airport, managing registration and check-in, providing directions and information, supporting education sessions and handling logistics is a great way for any aspiring event professional to develop valuable industry skills.
It’s also worth mentioning that recruiting students and young professionals, in particular, (Hello, Gen Zers!) can significantly enrich your volunteer crew. Here are strategies for recruiting, engaging and empowering Gen Z volunteers…
Where to Find Gen Z Volunteers
Colleges and Universities
Connect with institutions offering event management programs that require students to gain hands-on experience. Partnering with these programs can yield motivated recruits.
Resources to explore:
- College Factual for rankings and details on top event-planning schools.
- Universities.com for program reviews and insights into colleges with event planning degrees.
Once you find a degree program that aligns with your goals, consider getting in contact with student government, which can help promote volunteer opportunities; or student-run clubs and organizations that emphasize the skills and interests your event taps into. University departments like Career Services, Community Engagement or Service Learning can also be a great place to get in touch with (more tips on what to include in your inquiry below).
Community Centers and Nonprofits
Collaborate with local organizations that engage young people in leadership development or community service. A bonus, of course, would be finding an organization that caters to pursuits that align with your event’s mission.
Gathering Spaces
Leverage bulletin boards (physical and online) at libraries, cafés and other community hubs to post flyers about volunteer opportunities.
Online Platforms
Use apps and websites like Idealist, VolunteerMatch or VolunteerHub—which has its own blog posts about how to engage Gen Z volunteers, specifically—to reach eager volunteers in this generation (currently aged between 13 and 28) directly.
Tailoring Your Message to Gen Z
Prioritize Purpose
Gen Z values meaningful work. VolunteerHub reported that volunteers in this generation are motivated by “increased value, career readiness, learning opportunities and improved self-esteem.”
Keep this in mind while clearly communicating your organization’s mission. Don’t forget to explain how a volunteer’s efforts will contribute to broader goals.
Highlight Benefits
Emphasize professional skills Gen Z volunteers may gain on-site while volunteering at a conference or trade show. It doesn’t hurt to offer networking opportunities these youngsters can leverage through volunteering too.
Offer Flexibility
Be mindful that young volunteers are likely juggling school, work and other commitments. Rather than expect them to volunteer for a full day, segment the day into two or three shifts.
Foster Inclusivity
Recruit from diverse sources to build an inclusive, welcoming team where everyone feels welcome.
Set Clear Expectations
Outline roles, responsibilities and goals upfront to provide structure and clarity. (Think: job description, where you clearly outline expectations related to a volunteer role.)
Encourage Collaboration
Engage volunteers by seeking their input and fostering idea-sharing. It’s no secret that Gen Z thrives when actively involved in decision-making.
Setting Gen Z Volunteers Up for Success
Invest in Training
Even if it’s a quick, hour-long training session before an event kicks off, be sure to leave time for a guided session led by experienced leaders not only to let volunteers know what’s expected of them, but also to ensure tasks get done correctly.
To take this a step further, consider involving an event’s leaders or speakers in a mentorship opportunity exclusively available to volunteers.
Request Feedback
Survey volunteers after an event to assess their experience and gather suggestions for improvement. Their input demonstrates that your organization values their perspectives—which could be enough to entice a volunteer back.
Show Appreciation
Celebrate contributions through recognition events, personalized thank-you emails and certificates of achievement that Gen Zers can share on their resumes and on LinkedIn.
Stay Connected
Maintain relationships with periodic emails offering opportunities to engage with the organization and volunteer for future events.
