Do you recognize any of the following events or entertainers below?
- NASCAR Daytona 500
- NBC’s Last Comic Standing
- Sinbad
- Paul Riser
- 3 Doors Down
- Richard Lewis
- Weird Al Yankovic
- Thompson Square
What do they and recruitment and retention have in common?
I’ve had more than a few jobs, with just as many hobbies. The only one that ended up being both was becoming a professional stand-up comedian. The names and events above are a short list of where I’ve had a unique opportunity to perform and tell jokes.
I’ve been in the stand-up comedy game longer than in the recruiting game. Believe it or not, the skills I’ve honed in comedy have proven invaluable in my recruitment and retention profession.
Now, let’s talk about recruiting and retaining the amazing folks in volunteer fire and EMS, first responders, and law enforcement. These everyday heroes keep our communities safe, often without expecting much in return, but recruiting and retaining them? Well, that can be harder than performing in front of 175,000 people on the infield at the Daytona 500 in 2001. Trust me, I know.
Here are five things I’ve learned from my years in the comedy world that have helped me in the world of recruitment and retention:
- Know Your Audience: In comedy, knowing who you’re talking to is crucial. When recruiting or retaining volunteers, it’s essential to understand what drives them, what they value, and what they need. One size does not fit all, so tailor your approach to each individual and their unique motivations.
- Build Relationships: In comedy, connecting with your audience is key to a successful performance. Similarly, building relationships with potential recruits and current members is essential. Show them that you care about them as people, not just as numbers on a roster.
- Tell Compelling Stories: As a comedian, storytelling is at the heart of what I do. And guess what? It’s just as important in recruitment and retention. Share stories that highlight the impact and importance of these roles, painting a vivid picture of the difference they can make in their community.
- Be Authentic: Authenticity is crucial in both comedy and recruiting. People can spot a phony from a mile away, so be genuine in your interactions and true to your organization’s values. Authenticity builds trust, which is the foundation of any successful relationship.
- Celebrate Successes: In comedy, celebrating a successful performance is a no-brainer. The same should be true in recruitment and retention. Take the time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of your volunteers and team members’ accomplishments, whether big or small.
I bet you didn’t know that the world of stand-up comedy could teach us so much about recruiting and retaining volunteer fire and EMS, first responders, and law enforcement leaders. When you think about it, it makes perfect sense. After all, both require creativity, empathy, and a knack for connecting with people on a human level.
So, the next time you are on the recruitment or retention stage, a bit of laughter goes a long way in creating a positive and engaging environment for your team. Whether sharing funny stories during training sessions or organizing lighthearted events to boost morale, consider the power of humor in recruitment.
By Walter Campbell, Recruitment & Retention Strategist
Are you looking to improve your social media reach and your recruitment and retention success rate? First Arriving can help! Complete our Online Inquiry Form or Email Getstarted@FirstArriving.com today.
