Engaging with Switchboard (SB) can be a game-changer for your ministry, providing access to knowledge, expertise, and willing volunteers ready to support your mission. But they can’t help if they never connect with you and your request.  Here’s a guide on how to compose your requests so that they find the right audience. 

Before we start, let’s talk about some basics.  There are two ways that you can connect with a KC:

The first is a One-Hour Consultation.  These matches allow you to talk to an expert on a particular topic for a one-hour phone call. These normally happen within a few days (or a few hours) and are designed to connect people quickly to talk about a topic of interest for one hour.   

The second is a Virtual Role.  These roles allow you to recruit a KC to fill a particular role on your team for an ongoing period – similar to a part-time volunteer job.  These are much higher commitment, and require more due diligence on both sides to determine whether the person and the role are a good fit.   These roles may be filled immediately, or may never be filled – it depends on the request and the availability of KC’s with that capacity.  It also helps to write the role in a way that is clear and compelling to potential KC’s. 

Most of our KC’s want to serve you and your ministry, but they have full-time jobs and family commitments as well.   The better you understand the KCs and their circumstances, the more likely you will have success.

1. Start with a One-Hour Consultation

If you are new to Switchboard, you should consider starting with a one-hour phone call with a Switchboard Expert. This initial conversation will help you understand how SB works and how it can best serve your organization.

During this call, you’ll get familiar with the platform’s approach and receive tips on how to enhance your online profile.  We can also help you craft your first requests for expert help. You can also reference Tips for writing a One-Hour Consult Request.

2. Define Your Virtual Role with the Help of an Expert

When recruiting for a Virtual Role, it’s important to provide a clear expectation of what is needed in terms of expertise and time commitment.  Use the one-hour consultation to frame up the issue correctly. 

A well-defined problem is the first step toward finding the right solution and SB volunteers can offer their keen insights to help you articulate your needs effectively.  Once you have completed that one-hour call, you can then create a much more accurate Virtual Role with realistic time commitment expectations. 

3. Be Realistic with Your Virtual Roles

When asking for help, it’s important to keep your requests realistic, clear, and compelling:

• Ask for Doable Tasks: For example, don’t ask a Kingdom Consultant (KC) to build the next version of Facebook in just a few hours a month. Start small and scale up if needed.
• Avoid Overburdening Volunteers: Most KCs have full-time jobs, so it’s wise not to request 20 hours a week when fewer hours will suffice. Consider spreading the workload by involving multiple KCs to ensure the task is manageable and more likely to be completed.  Occasionally, you will find KC’s who are retired, or who have significant time availability, but that is the exception. Usually, requests for more than 10-15 hours a month are more difficult to fill.
• Inspire Applicants with your Mission:  Clearly state your mission and how the work they do will move that mission forward.

4. Ask for Advisors

Once the problem is defined, identify the specific areas where you need expert advice. SB offers a range of advisors with specialized knowledge. Consider requesting help from:

• CPA Advisor: For financial guidance and tax-related concerns.
• HR Advisor: To address human resources issues.
• PC/Tech Advisor: For technology-related support and troubleshooting.
• Homeschooling Advisor: To assist field workers who want an experienced guide.

5. Request Assistance for Simple Tasks

Don’t hesitate to ask for help with smaller, yet crucial tasks that can ease your workload. SB volunteers are more than willing to assist with:

• Proofreading
• Copyediting
• Spreadsheet Help 
• Encouragement 
• Homeschooling

6. Leverage the Database of Willing Servants

Switchboard’s database is filled with volunteers ready to assist you. However it is important to frame the request so that the KC will see it (and not be intimidated by it).   For example, most missional organizations send out newsletters on a monthly or quarterly basis.  

If your request asks for a “Mailchimp Expert,” then most KCs will never see it. Instead, you can ask for a volunteer who can send out your newsletter and include that you use Mailchimp, and that you will help them learn the tool.  Use language that everyday believers can understand, and avoid non-essential technical jargon. 

7. Share Your Request with Your Supporters 

Once you’ve documented your needs in the software, share your request with your supporters.  This not only broadens your reach but also increases the chances of connecting with the right volunteers who resonate with your mission.

By clicking on the “Copy Sharable Link” on your Virtual Role, you can bring future volunteers to the table to assist in your ministry.  If the KC is new to Switchboard, he will be able to see a subset of the request and then will be asked to complete his KC profile and sign a statement of faith before accessing the details.

8. Inspire Volunteers with Your Mission

Ensure that your mission’s impact and potential are communicated to any KC you interact with. Highlight the transformative work your ministry is doing, making it easy for volunteers to see the significance of their contributions.

9. Monitor Your Email for Updates

After your requests are submitted, keep an eye on your email for updates from potential volunteers and SB itself. Timely responses can help keep the momentum going and ensure you get the support you need promptly.

By following these steps, you can effectively leverage Switchboard to bring valuable expertise and support to your ministry. Whether it’s for short-term assistance or ongoing projects, the platform is designed to connect you with Kingdom-minded volunteers who are eager to help you succeed in your mission.