Professional development sends a message—sometimes louder than compensation ever could.
A recent Associations Now article revealed what many leaders already sense: nonprofit staff value professional development clearly tied to career goals and future pathways more than pay raises. PD becomes meaningful when it helps people see where they’re going and how to get there.
For associations and nonprofits, this raises an important question: Which skills actually prepare staff for long‑term leadership?
One of the most overlooked answers is the ability to work effectively with volunteers. This is more than an observation; it’s also a data point from two ASAE Foundation research studies: Mutually Beneficial Volunteering and Holistic Approach to Volunteer Management.
Volunteer engagement is not transactional. It sits at the intersection of influence, governance, relationship‑building, and mission stewardship. Staff who excel in this space learn how to lead without authority, balance competing priorities, and navigate ambiguity, all while serving as a valuable partner across roles—skills that matter far beyond volunteer programs.
When organizations invest in training their staff to be effective volunteer liaisons, they’re doing more than strengthening volunteer experience. They’re growing leaders who understand how associations function as complex ecosystems.
Done well, professional development isn’t a benefit—it’s a pathway. And for nonprofits serious about leadership sustainability, volunteer engagement belongs squarely on that path.
As we prepare for our upcoming Volunteer Liaison Training for staff, this article is a timely reminder that when professional development is tied to real responsibilities and real pathways, everyone benefits: staff, volunteers, and the mission itself.