Expectations of Non-profit Apprentices

This page applies to NPAs. It's still a bit of a work in progress.

General Good Worker Expectations

• All collective workers are required to report all the hours that they work.
• Puts the interests of Free Geek before personal interests while working.
• Bring interpersonal conflict to the attention of a collective member.
  • (come back to this)
• Learn & use standard communication tools. (These tools might include email lists, RT, the wiki, bulletin boards, etc.)
• Has basic computer knowledge (use of web browser, email and word processor, database and spreadsheet).
• Is able to work in an informal environment with a diverse staff while maintaining a positive attitude even in the face of adversity.
• Is able to remain flexible as Free Geek grows and changes.
• Is able to work well under stress in an unusual, somewhat chaotic setting while being courteous and friendly.
• Is self-motivated and able to multi-task (i.e., can supervise, organize and maintain an area and work on other projects almost entirely without supervision) but not afraid to ask questions.
• Is aware of safety on the job.
• Must set goals, have a job description and participate in a peer review process.
  • (Idea: want them to participate in peer review of each other.)
• Treats co-workers and volunteers with courtesy and respect (i.e., arrive on time or call if going to be late, be efficient and make good use of time, use the phone, socialize and take breaks at appropriate times).

Volunteer Management / Coordination

• Leaves volunteer-inhabited areas clean and ready for next shift.
• Makes volunteers and donors feel welcome, actively reaches out.
• Actively involves volunteers in appropriate projects.
• Listens to volunteers/donors and tries to meet their needs.
• Is a volunteer coordinator.
• Is patient and courteous with the public.
• Is able to work with and coordinate volunteers with a wide range of skills and experience.

Sharing the Load

• Actively participates in meetings.
• Is a reliable member of the NPA group.
• Follows through with commitments.
• Participates in NPA management structure.
• Participates in a consensus decision making process related to NPA issues.
• Shares in tackling the undesirable NPA tasks.

Collective Level Differences

This section is an outline of the differences between staff collective expectations and NPA expections. See the discussion page for a more complete diff.

• Hire/Fire
• Ultimate responsibility for whole of Free Geek/the buck stops here
• Discipline