West Australian student joins Alumni

Sharon Knott

We spoke to Sharon about her experience and her top tips as volunteer leader

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned about managing volunteers that you wish you knew earlier?
Volunteers do not stay because of fancy programs — they stay because they feel valued, included and connected. Small things matter more than we sometimes realise.

What’s your best tip for keeping volunteers motivated and engaged?
Know them as people, not just volunteers. Learn their “why”, thank them often, and make sure they can see the difference they are making.

What’s one strategy you’ve found most effective for recruiting volunteers?
Storytelling and word of mouth. Real stories from volunteers and clients create connection far better than a flyer ever will.

What was the most valuable aspect of the Certificate IV in Coordination of Volunteer Programs (CHC 44015) for you, and why?
The most valuable part was being able to connect the learning directly back to real volunteer programs and real workplace situations. It made the course practical, not just theory.

What was the most challenging part of completing the course and how did you overcome it?
Balancing study alongside work and life was definitely the biggest challenge. I treated it like a non-negotiable part of my routine and just kept chipping away at it, bit by bit.