When a volunteer leaves your SLSC, it is a good opportunity to perform an exit interview or survey to gather information about their reason for leaving and their experiences at the SLSC. The information collected may be used to improve the SLSC and recognise the efforts of volunteers. The simplest way to find out why they left is to ask them—this can be done in person, via survey or over the phone.
This is not always easy to do, particularly if it is negative feedback, but if you want to improve your SLSC and retain more members, you need to know why people are leaving and if they plan to return in the future. You must also ensure you are prepared to respond and make needed changes if you ask the questions.
SLSCs may wish to use the following three questions in their exit surveys:
Q1. What is the main reason you did not renew your membership? Please select all that apply.
- Cost/financial commitment
- I had a negative experience
- Lost interest
- Moved away from the area
- The process of reviewing was too hard
- Time commitment – I couldn’t participate how and when I wanted
- Time commitment – it took up too much time
- Other
Q2. What could we have done to keep you as a member? Please select all that apply.
- Be more inclusive
- Be more welcoming
- Deliver activities or services differently
- Nothing
- Provide me with more flexibility in how and when I can participate
- Streamline administration processes
- Other
Q3. How likely is it that you would recommend Surf Life Saving to a friend or colleague?
When performing an exit interview, you may wish to remind them of:
- The different member pathway options available for returning members
- The SLSNSW Returning to Surf Life Saving Infographic and recognition of prior learning pathway options for many SLS awards they can complete upon their return to any SLSC
- How they can re-join the SLSC an SLSC at any time via the Renewals, Payments and Transfers section of the SLS Members Area Membership menu.
As per the SLSNSW Constitution, a member who ceases to be a member shall forfeit all right in and claim upon SLSNSW and its property and shall not use any surf lifesaving equipment or any other property of SLSNSW, including intellectual property.