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How can you handle a volunteer who doesn't pass the screening process?

Powered by AI and the LinkedIn community

1

Be clear and consistent

2

Be respectful and empathetic

3

Be honest and constructive

4

Be timely and responsive

5

Be prepared and proactive

6

Be positive and supportive

7

Here’s what else to consider

Volunteer screening and interviewing are essential steps to ensure the quality and safety of your organization and its beneficiaries. However, not every volunteer candidate will meet your criteria or expectations. How can you handle a volunteer who doesn't pass the screening process? Here are some tips to help you manage this delicate situation.

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Selected by the community from 11 contributions. Learn more
  • Member profile image
    Denise van Egdom
    Owner @ DCVE Recruitment | Diversity & Inclusion | Employer Branding
    3
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    Denys Dinkevych
    Talent Sourcing Enthusiast
    3
  • Member profile image
    Vivien Edwards
    Senior Executive Assistant & Admin Leader | Expert in C-Suite Support, Executive Recruitment, Operational Excellence…
    2

1 Be clear and consistent

The first tip is to be clear and consistent about your screening process and criteria. Make sure you communicate them to the volunteer candidates before they apply, and follow them throughout the process. This way, you can avoid confusion, misunderstanding, or false expectations. If a volunteer doesn't pass the screening process, you can explain the reasons based on the criteria you have established.

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    Vivien Edwards

    Senior Executive Assistant & Admin Leader | Expert in C-Suite Support, Executive Recruitment, Operational Excellence, and Team Management

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    One thing I have found helpful is checking the volunteer has a good understanding in relation to the checks and the reasoning. You may think your communication style is clear but ensure the volunteer understands and gives approval for the relevant checks

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  • Contributor profile photo
    Contributor profile photo
    Patrick JAN 🔴

    Recruiting Enthusiast | Senior Sales Consultant @ epunkt Graz/Wien 🚀 | Gründer von vereinssong.com – Ich vernetze Unternehmen mit Talenten & bringe Vereine zum Klingen 🎵⚽

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    When a volunteer doesn't pass screening, be clear and consistent. Communicate specific reasons respectfully, citing relevant policies. Acknowledge their willingness but stress the importance of safety. Ensure consistency in applying screening protocols. Offer guidance for improvement if applicable. Provide a platform for questions, maintaining open communication within a concise and transparent approach.

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    Jordan Lawson

    Managing Director @ The UK Careers Fair | 80+ Locations | 300+ Recruitment Events in 2025/26 | Nationwide Impact

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    Start by providing clear and respectful communication to inform them of the screening outcome. Offer specific feedback on the reasons for their ineligibility while emphasizing the importance of safety and compliance. Explore alternative volunteer opportunities within the organization, where their skills and interests might align with screening requirements. Maintain an open-door policy for any questions or concerns they may have. Finally, express appreciation for their interest and willingness to contribute, ensuring they feel valued despite the screening outcome.

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2 Be respectful and empathetic

The second tip is to be respectful and empathetic towards the volunteer who doesn't pass the screening process. Remember that they have invested their time and energy to apply, and they may have a genuine interest in your cause. Rejecting them can be disappointing, frustrating, or even hurtful. Therefore, you should express your appreciation for their interest and effort, and acknowledge their strengths and skills. You should also avoid being harsh, rude, or judgmental, and use a polite and professional tone.

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    Vivien Edwards

    Senior Executive Assistant & Admin Leader | Expert in C-Suite Support, Executive Recruitment, Operational Excellence, and Team Management

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    Absolutely, respect and empathy throughout the process especially when they have been unsuccessful. If you are able tell them the reason why they haven’t passed the vetting, this will provide an opportunity to rectify or at least be aware of the situation before taking similar checks again.

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  • Contributor profile photo
    Contributor profile photo
    Patrick JAN 🔴

    Recruiting Enthusiast | Senior Sales Consultant @ epunkt Graz/Wien 🚀 | Gründer von vereinssong.com – Ich vernetze Unternehmen mit Talenten & bringe Vereine zum Klingen 🎵⚽

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    Approaching a volunteer who didn't pass screening requires a respectful and empathetic tone. Clearly explain the reasons with sensitivity, recognizing their willingness to contribute. Emphasize the importance of safety and adherence to policies. Express gratitude for their interest and offer support or alternative opportunities if available. Maintain an open line for questions, ensuring a compassionate and understanding communication style within the constraints of a concise message.

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3 Be honest and constructive

The third tip is to be honest and constructive when you reject a volunteer who doesn't pass the screening process. Don't lie, sugarcoat, or evade the truth. Instead, give them honest and constructive feedback on why they didn't pass, and what they can do to improve their chances in the future. For example, you can suggest them to gain more experience, learn new skills, or apply for a different role that suits them better. You can also offer them other ways to support your organization, such as donating, spreading the word, or joining an event.

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    Denise van Egdom

    Owner @ DCVE Recruitment | Diversity & Inclusion | Employer Branding

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    You can get started by telling it to them straight away. Don't keep them hanging. In my experience, volunteers really appreciate honest feedback. It is not only about telling them what they can improve for this specific role and/or organization. I also try to give them tips on where they can best use their skills. They are probably a great volunteer in a different type of role/organization.

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  • Contributor profile photo
    Contributor profile photo
    Patrick JAN 🔴

    Recruiting Enthusiast | Senior Sales Consultant @ epunkt Graz/Wien 🚀 | Gründer von vereinssong.com – Ich vernetze Unternehmen mit Talenten & bringe Vereine zum Klingen 🎵⚽

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    When addressing a volunteer who didn't pass screening, honesty and constructive feedback are essential. Clearly communicate the reasons for the decision, focusing on specific aspects of the screening process. Offer constructive feedback by highlighting areas for improvement, demonstrating a commitment to their development. Be transparent about the importance of maintaining standards for a safe and secure environment. Encourage the volunteer to seek clarification and ask questions, fostering an open and constructive dialogue within the constraints of concise communication.

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4 Be timely and responsive

The fourth tip is to be timely and responsive when you reject a volunteer who doesn't pass the screening process. Don't delay, ignore, or ghost them. Instead, inform them of the outcome as soon as possible, and respond to any questions or concerns they may have. You can also ask them for feedback on your screening process, and thank them for their participation. By being timely and responsive, you can show them that you respect their time and value their input.

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    Patrick JAN 🔴

    Recruiting Enthusiast | Senior Sales Consultant @ epunkt Graz/Wien 🚀 | Gründer von vereinssong.com – Ich vernetze Unternehmen mit Talenten & bringe Vereine zum Klingen 🎵⚽

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    In handling a volunteer who didn't pass screening, prioritize timeliness and responsiveness. Promptly communicate the decision, providing clear reasons and necessary information. Be available to address any immediate concerns or questions they may have. Demonstrate a commitment to efficient and respectful communication, acknowledging the volunteer's time and interest. Timely responses contribute to a smoother process, showing consideration for the individual's engagement and maintaining a positive relationship despite the screening outcome.

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5 Be prepared and proactive

The fifth tip is to be prepared and proactive when you reject a volunteer who doesn't pass the screening process. Don't wait until the last minute, or make it up as you go. Instead, plan ahead and have a clear and consistent procedure for rejecting volunteers. You can also create a template or a script for your rejection email or phone call, and customize it according to each case. By being prepared and proactive, you can avoid mistakes, confusion, or conflicts.

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  • Contributor profile photo
    Contributor profile photo
    Patrick JAN 🔴

    Recruiting Enthusiast | Senior Sales Consultant @ epunkt Graz/Wien 🚀 | Gründer von vereinssong.com – Ich vernetze Unternehmen mit Talenten & bringe Vereine zum Klingen 🎵⚽

    • Report contribution

    Preparedness and proactivity are key in handling a volunteer who didn't pass screening. Anticipate potential concerns, ensuring you have a clear explanation ready. Proactively communicate the decision, providing specific reasons and relevant details. Offer solutions or alternatives to maintain their engagement. Demonstrate a commitment to supporting the volunteer's involvement by being proactive in addressing any questions or uncertainties. This prepared and proactive approach helps navigate the situation smoothly, fostering a constructive and positive interaction despite the screening outcome.

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6 Be positive and supportive

The sixth tip is to be positive and supportive when you reject a volunteer who doesn't pass the screening process. Don't end the relationship on a bad note, or burn any bridges. Instead, wish them well and encourage them to pursue other opportunities. You can also keep in touch with them, and update them on your organization's progress and achievements. You never know, they may become your supporters, donors, or advocates in the future. By being positive and supportive, you can maintain a good reputation and a strong network.

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  • Contributor profile photo
    Contributor profile photo
    Patrick JAN 🔴

    Recruiting Enthusiast | Senior Sales Consultant @ epunkt Graz/Wien 🚀 | Gründer von vereinssong.com – Ich vernetze Unternehmen mit Talenten & bringe Vereine zum Klingen 🎵⚽

    • Report contribution

    Approach a volunteer who didn't pass screening with a positive and supportive tone. Highlight their willingness to contribute and express gratitude for their interest. Deliver the news in a way that emphasizes the importance of safety and compliance with policies. Offer encouragement for future opportunities or roles that align better with their skills. Provide support by addressing any questions or concerns they may have, ensuring a positive and supportive interaction that encourages their continued engagement with the organization.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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    Denys Dinkevych

    Talent Sourcing Enthusiast

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    Begin by communicating clearly and respectfully. Inform the volunteer of the decision in a manner that maintains their dignity, without divulging specific details that may breach confidentiality or privacy policies. Provide a general explanation that the decision was based on the criteria necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the volunteer program. It's important to adhere to your organization's policies and any legal guidelines regarding volunteer screening and rejection. Offer other ways they might support the organization if possible, suggesting roles that might not require the same level of screening or responsibilities.

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