What motivates you? Affiliation
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EmailLearn the motivational styles of volunteers, such as affiliation-orientated volunteers whom are driven by relationships.
As volunteers come to organizations, they bring with them a variety of reasons for volunteering. Those reasons fall into three major categories: achievement, affiliation and influence. Volunteers should not be placed into one of these categories and then have their options for volunteering limited; we are a unique blend of these categories and have a lot to offer the organization for which we volunteer. In this series of articles, we look at these motivational styles and ways to recognize individuals within those styles. Those who are motivated by affiliation enjoy and feed off of being with others.
Being with others and feeding off their energy is what the individuals motivated by affiliation are all about. Volunteers who are motivated by affiliation have a goal to establish relationships and tend to be good at it. They want to be liked and tend to be concerned with being liked and fitting in. They seek ways to fit in and be involved in group activities, and would prefer to work in a group versus working independently many times.
Interpersonal relationships are important to these individuals and they will work to establish them. When they have time to think things over, they may consider how they can help others in the group, create friendly environments, and ensure the feelings of others are being taken into consideration.
Affiliated-orientated individuals enjoy being surrounded by other volunteers who are engaged in making a difference as well. The synergy created inspires them to continue volunteering and inviting others to join the fun. If you want to join the fun and experience the magic of friends, fun and making a difference, you may find a place with your favorite community organization like Michigan State University Extension. Volunteers who are motivated and driven by achievement are successful in many organizations and you may find your place when you contact your local MSU Extension office.
