Are you between jobs? Or maybe you're trying to land your first job. Or perhaps you'd like to change careers all together.
Volunteering could be the cure for your employment ails.
Not only do volunteers enjoy the satisfaction of giving to their community and helping a worthy cause, they also get valuable experience -- experience that could lead to the job of their dreams.
Volunteering can fill gaps on a resume, especially for out-of-work job seekers. And networking opportunities abound for volunteers. The key is finding the right volunteer opportunity.
Volunteer Work Is Work Experience
Although you're not paid for volunteer work, it's still work. And it definitely qualifies as work experience.
Consider volunteering at an organization that will offer you skills or experience that you lack. Volunteering is an ideal way to gain exposure to different jobs in different fields, especially for those just entering the workforce or hoping to change careers.
Almost all volunteer efforts build skills in communication, motivation and teamwork. And volunteer work will usually provide you with a good reference, a must for most job applications.
An added benefit of volunteering is that it can ease the sense of isolation job seekers often feel while trying to land a paid position. Volunteering creates an almost instant sense of community and connection.
Volunteering Can Be the Best Way to Network
Volunteering can be the key to a better professional network.
First, you'll meet new people. Since you'll be working together, your fellow volunteers will have a legitimate way to evaluate your skills. As such, they'll be much more effective professional contacts than someone you met briefly at a cocktail party or other social event.
Many corporations are involved in volunteering too. These companies not only encourage employees to volunteer individually, but many also send out teams of employees to work on a particular project. So you may even meet hiring managers from large, local companies through your volunteer work.
Shine at your volunteer job because you never know who's watching.
How to Make the Most of Volunteering
There are an unlimited number of volunteer opportunities, so it's important to select the one that best meets your needs.
Think carefully about what you want from your volunteer experience. The most fulfilling experiences often involve interacting with people, making a contribution and learning new skills.
You should also be sure to challenge yourself in your volunteer position. Volunteers often offer their services in their areas of expertise. But why not pick a position that'll help you develop new skills instead?
Choose your volunteer opportunity wisely. And, if you aren't satisfied with your role, speak up. Most organizations would rather accommodate your wishes than lose your valuable assistance.
Where to Find Volunteer Opportunities
Once you've decided to volunteer, you need to figure out how to get started.
You can think big: National organizations like the American Red Cross, Big Brothers and Sisters, Habitat for Humanity or the United Way have local chapters and a constant need for volunteers.
Or, you can start smaller: Local hospitals, animal shelters, youth centers and substance-abuse prevention organizations all have limited resources. They depend on the kindness of volunteers to meet their needs.
Your alumni association is also a good resource for volunteer opportunities. Plus, it's a great way to reconnect -- and network -- with your former classmates.
