The impact of role ambiguity on future volunteering: A case study of the 2017 European Youth Olympic Winter Festival.

Abstract

Research on role ambiguity suggests its relationship to retention and commitment in business, industry and non-profit settings. The purpose of this study was to explore factors associated with perceived role ambiguity experienced by volunteers at the 2017 European Youth Olympic Winter Festival, and their impact on future volunteering engagement and awareness post-event. The study also examined differences in event role ambiguity perceptions based on gender, age and volunteering experience among the participants. Data were collected by a means of an online-administered survey from a sample of 268 volunteers. A response rate of 44% was obtained. Results of principal component analysis suggested two role ambiguity factors consisting of ‘means-ends/expectations & Scope’ and ‘Consequences of role performance’ that were relevant in this event setting. A significant association between volunteering experience and both role ambiguity dimensions were reported, while for ‘means-ends/expectations & scope’ ambiguity, males experienced greater clarity. Finally, the results indicate that role ambiguity is associated with future volunteering beyond the event. Implications for event managers are then explored.