3 Ways Volunteering Can Help You Get a Job
/Volunteering is an asset in all stages of a successful job search, whether you’re looking for a job or are preparing for an interview. People often overlook the value of volunteering when they are unemployed. In my experience with career counseling, clients who volunteer really have a leg up on their competition. Here’s 3 ways volunteering can enhance your job search:
1. Expands Your Network
Networking should make up a large percentage of your job search strategy, and volunteering is a great way to meet new people and expand your network. It’s important to remember that everyone is a potential contact, everyone has friends and family in the workforce. Cast a wide net, you never know which connection will lead to a potential opportunity.
2. Acquire New Skills
Volunteering is a cost-effective way to maintain your current skill set and acquire new skills. Whether you are seeking leadership experience or want to develop a technical skill, volunteering is a safe way to expand your expertise in a low pressure workplace. Seeing how you operate in a different environment may also provide you with more clarity on where your strengths truly lie. The more tools you have the better, plus you never know what doors these new skills may open.
3. Builds Confidence
Half the battle of looking for a job is keeping your morale up, especially if you have been unemployed for a considerable period of time. Helping others is a great way to build your confidence. Volunteer experience looks great on your resume, in fact, employers often look for and value community service when hiring people. Not to mention, recent volunteer work can be a positive experience to refer to during an interview.
When looking for a volunteer opportunity that best suits you, a great place to start is by checking out the Propellus website. Propellus connects people with volunteer opportunities in Calgary that match their values and skill sets.
For in-depth help with your job search, sign up for a free 30-minute consultation.
Look forward to hearing from you!
Tanya Snow