Volunteers have shared that they face high inertia when it comes to signing up for volunteer opportunities. As most volunteering opportunities at SSAs require interviews and other screeing processes, having an overly formal interview could deter potential volunteers from completing the signup process. Volunteers share the sentiment that since they are volunteering out of their free will, it seems too much of a hassle to have to go through formal interviews.

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Due to the nature of SSAs and the direct interactions volunteers have with service users of SSAs, we understand the need for adequate screening of volunteers. Instead of formal interviews, here are some ways you can tone down your interviews while still getting all the information you require: 

1. Tea Sessions: Hosting a tea session is a good way to get to know a group of volunteers informally with the opportunity to induct them into your organisation. It also saves time for your volunteer managers as they can speak to multiple potential volunteers at the same time. 

2. Short Phone Calls: Phone calls are traditionally an informal way of communication and can be useful in initial screenings where you are interested to find out more about potential volunteers. 

3. Setting: If the volunteering role is of a higher sensitivity and requires a face-to-face interview with potential volunteers, you can still tone it down by choosing an informal venue, such as choosing a lounge area over a meeting room. Specifying that smart casual dress codes are allowed for the interview could also help to reduce the formality of the interview.