Are you stuck in your job search? You’ve updated your resume, created social media profiles, and drafted a cover letter, but still can’t get your foot in the door of an organization? One element that may be missing is what you accomplish outside of your work day. This is where volunteering can play a major role in landing your next job. Besides making a difference and giving back to your community, there are several positive ways that volunteering can assist you with your job search.

Show an Employer You Care

When you choose to take on a volunteering opportunity, it gives you a way to show a potential employer that you have a passion outside of the office. Recruiters and hiring managers want to see that you can be an engaged and dedicated member of their team. What better way to display these traits than by having a charity or nonprofit you are a part of and to which you commit time each month?

Add New Experiences to Your Resume

Volunteering will allow you to add new experiences and skills to your resume. These experiences show that you have initiative and can set you apart from other applicants. Your volunteering not only adds more value to your resume, but it also gives you more talking points that you can use on a phone screen, while networking, or during an interview.

Expand Your Network of Connections

You never know who you are going to meet when you volunteer. By being involved in a charity, attending a volunteering event, or participating in a local 5k run, there are chances for you to meet new people who have similar passions as you. Use these opportunities to build professional relationships with other participants involved. These types of networking openings could lead to a reference or even a future employment opportunity.

Able to Learn New Skills

Becoming a volunteer gives you the ability to try new things, without any worry or pressure. You can use this as an opportunity to improve your leadership or project management skills and apply them in a direct situation. If you are looking to learn new skills, volunteering is a great way to gain experience in a new area that you may not have the chance to in your current position.

Apply Current Skills

Volunteer opportunities also allow you to apply your current skill sets and use them to make your experience even better. There are plenty of volunteer organizations that need talented individuals to help out in a variety of areas. These types of experiences will only help you to build more confidence in your skills, as well as show you what you are truly capable of in your career.

Determine Your Career Path

Trying a new volunteering experience can expose you to a variety of industries that you may have thought could be a fit for you. You can use your experience to determine which type of work environment works best for you. Do you like volunteering at a big event, working with a team of volunteers, raising money, or doing something one on one? Trying out different volunteer roles with different organizations helps you see which type of team and environment you prefer for your career.

Enhance Your Own Well-Being

Not only can volunteering assist your job search, but it’s also something that gets you on your feet and helps others. This type of activity not only benefits those involved but can improve your overall mindset as well. Staying positive isn’t the easiest thing to do when your job search is frustrating, but becoming a volunteer will at least bring you a sense of fulfillment.

Volunteering Quote.pngIf your job search is going slower than expected, volunteering is a way that can improve it. Learn about local charities or events in your area and get involved. Not only will you be helping your community, but it could also assist you in finding your next career opportunity.

 

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