In the world of job hunting, standing out from the crowd is a major challenge, especially if you’re entering an industry where everyone has the same qualifications.
Volunteering is one of the most underrated ways of increasing your employability. It looks great on a CV and will earn you bonus experience that could stand you in good stead in a competitive work environment.
If you’re looking to get ahead of your peers and wow your would-be interviewers, then check out these five reasons that volunteering could be just the trick you need.
Transferable Skills
Volunteering is a great way to start upskilling. There are numerous opportunities for you to gain transferable skills that will not only benefit you in your everyday life but are sought after by businesses searching for skilled employees.
Skills such as time management and project leadership will help you keep on top of tasks and make it easier for you to progress in your chosen career.
1. Build Contacts
Finding contacts in your desired industry isn’t always easy. However, volunteering in your field is a great way to make connections that can benefit you when you start looking for employment.
If you have industry experience and know people in the organisation that you would like to work for, you can stay up to date with job vacancies, and even have existing employees vouch for your commitment. Similarly, volunteering is a fantastic way to get more references when it comes to filling out your applications.
2. Demonstrate Compassion
Volunteering demonstrates that you have compassion for others, are conscious about wider problems in the world, and are eager to help make life better.
Organisations like Conservation Travel Africa offer a range of volunteer programs, from wildlife conservation to community outreach. The experience you gain from these projects will give you a wealth of experience of other cultures and demonstrate your commitment and dedication to any challenge you’re confronted with.
3. Fill Employment Gaps
Employment gaps can be hard to explain, and if you’ve been out of work for a while then they can leave you feeling a little self-conscious.
There are many reasons people take a break from their careers – most commonly for childrearing. However, if you make time during these periods to volunteer, even locally, you’ll help to fill those gaps with activities that employers value.
4. Build Up Confidence
If you struggle with confidence, then volunteering can give you just the boost you need to face that return to work or career change – especially if you volunteer in the sector that you wish to work in.
Volunteering will give you a sense of purpose and productivity, as well as personal fulfilment –it feels good to help people in need, and give back to your community.
If you’re looking to build a solid foundation to construct your needed career on, then consider the wealth of volunteering opportunities that are available and achieve that competitive edge all while giving back to society.
Have you undertaken volunteer work? Share what you did in the comments below!
