Communication strategies for the recruitment of new mentors

2025-08-13

Development of a communication strategy aimed at recruiting young working adults to become volunteer mentors for Sindbad Innsbruck.

THE CHALLENGE

Many young professionals are not yet familiar with Sindbad or do not feel sufficiently addressed by current communication efforts. This project tackles the challenge of appealing to and engaging working young adults aged 20–35 to volunteer as mentors.

OUTCOMES

Our survey among young professionals revealed a high interest in voluntary mentoring – more than half of respondents could imagine getting involved. However, barriers such as lack of time and self-doubt were also frequently mentioned. Key factors for successful mentor recruitment include hands-on training, personal outreach, and authentic storytelling – especially via Instagram. Respondents with personal experience of social injustice showed particular openness to mentoring. Based on these findings, we developed specific recommendations for Sindbad Innsbruck: enhanced use of digital channels, tailored training offers, and target-group-specific communication strategies.

From left to right: Winkler Lisa, Franjic Stella, Gander Anna-Lena, Senff Helene

Fact Box

Study Program: Nonprofit, Social & Health Management
Team: Anna-Lena Gander, Stella Franjic, Helene Senff, Lisa Winkler
Supervisor(s): Prof. Dr. Raffael Heiss, MA
Partner Organisation: Sindbad Innsbruck
Year project was carried out: 2025
SDG:
SDG 4 – Quality Education: The project supports educational advancement by enabling young people from socially disadvantaged backgrounds to receive individual guidance through mentoring and to gain new perspectives
SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: By targeting youth with difficult starting conditions, the project contributes to reducing social inequalities and strengthening participation and equal opportunities.

Partner Statement:

"The team showed strong commitment and initiative. Their results offer valuable input for our future outreach. We’re grateful for the collaborative spirit and mutual learning throughout the project.”

– Corinne Fürhapter, Site Manager, Sindbad Innsbruck

Further Information:
Links: https://wl16177.wixsite.com/sindbad