If you volunteer...?

Question

If you volunteered to take over a particular leadership position and the one who had that position before you seemed upset that you volunteered. Would you think that this person wanted to remain in this position and that maybe you inadvertently stepped on this persons toes, if they made the remark to you "why do you want this position? So that I will have to serve on another board/committee". I am confused. I just thought I was doing this person a favor by allowing them a break and I was willing to rise to the challenge of this position, but instead I feel as though I was insulted and pretty much treated like I didn't have what it takes. I am confused. If you are in a service organization and have people or a person who is willing to volunteer to help to do anything, why would you question them like that and make them feel as though they weren't good enough to help? I am confused and just don't get it.

Answer 1

Sounds like the person's complaints or hints to be relieved or given help were just a wind screen. What the person was really wanting wat pats on the back, and attention to the by others so they could draw attention to how "hard" they were working, or how they were sacrificing for the cause. They really didn't want relief, they wanted attention.

Answer 2

she's probably one of those types that don't like people to help out with their problem's or become part of a committee. even if u do it since u want 2 be a good person.

Answer 3

You should confront him/her and let him/her know what your intentions were. Say that if they still want the position, they can have it and you didn't mean to climb over them for it; you meant to help them out. Sometimes, even with nonprofit or volunteering, there is a hierarchy of sorts. There's no denying that some positions are more important than others. And, part of the reason people like to volunteer is because it is so validating. So, if someone volunteers for the purpose of self-validation, and then is denied said job that is markedly difficult or important, s/he may be a little resentful. You have to be the mature one, and I'll bet that once you have a one-on-one conversation about it, s/he'll realize you didn't mean any harm and will come around. Your heart's in the right place, and that's the most important thing.