Why You Should Volunteer During Your Job Search

Alexander Richardson
Posted by in Career Advice


Volunteering is a great step into the workforce, especially when searching for work or if you’re between jobs. There’s always volunteer work available. A quick search online will show you how much is going on in your local neighborhood. And volunteer work is typically something that you can find that fits your experience level. Plus, it offers so many benefits, like:

1. Soft Skill Training                                                                                                

During volunteer work, you’ll be doing a multitude of tasks. Even if the tasks have nothing to do with your main occupation, volunteer work takes teamwork and patience. Use the work to hone or sharpen your soft skills. Communication, confidence, speaking, leadership, etc. Volunteering on a consistent basis will help you improve on these skills.

2. Connections

People always respect others who take time out their day to do volunteer work. You’ll make connections with fellow volunteer members and can gain insight into new opportunities. The supervisor can also act as a professional reference, giving you an edge over the competition in your job search. Don’t be afraid to connect with the people you’re volunteering with.

3. Experience

Whether it’s related to your job or not, your volunteer work should go down on your resume. It can be used to back up your soft skills and show the hiring manager that you’re willing to go above and beyond.

4. Pinpoint what you want

If you’re not sure of the type of work you want to do, then volunteering is a great place to start. You’ll be getting hands on experience and seeing what a job or field is really like. It’ll also get you into a working mode and keep you on your toes.

5. Enthusiasm Boost

If it’s been difficult finding work and you’re stuck with nothing to do, seeing the change you can make in your community might prove useful. When you apply for a job, there’s no guarantee that you’ll hear back, but volunteer work offers something meaningful to do that at the same time can make you feel good, provide a distraction, or simply help you gain some experience.

6. Time management

Volunteer work is all on your own time and if you struggle with managing your time, this would be a great place to work out the kinks. It’s great for learning or getting back into the routine of going to work and getting things done in a specified amount of time.

One thing to know is that volunteering is good for all parties involved and will make you a better employee in the future.

Comment

Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.

  • Ivy Lee L.
    Ivy Lee L.

    I agreed as well.

  • Vadim C.
    Vadim C.

    I am strongly agree. It brings joy to people.

  • Javad B.
    Javad B.

    I agree, It is great and feels good.

  • Rolando C.
    Rolando C.

    100% truth.Agree.

  • Eugenia N.
    Eugenia N.

    where would you i start to find volunteering

  • You Might Also Be Interested In

Jobs to Watch