When you volunteer, you will be able to share your skills, as well as your time with other people and organizations without expecting to get paid at the end of the month. Volunteering programs are vast, and you can choose from many, such as the community development building, medical/nurse/dental, language and cultural immersion, youth human rights programs, and many more. It will give you the chance to build your skills and experience, as well as demonstrate your employability.
So, what are the ways volunteering can help you? Here is a list of benefits you can get if you volunteer:
- It will give your experience – most companies that are looking for employees will want them to have experience. Volunteer experience will show them that you can manage your time well, and complete the tasks that are given to you. It will also show that you can work well in a team and make commitments.
- It will help you develop your skills – it will most certainly give you the skills you already have and you will be able to learn new ones. For example, as someone who volunteers you might be able to use your second language or improve your public speaking skills. You might even be able to learn how to use a new computer program or develop customer service skills. However, if you are already employed, you might want to look for volunteer opportunities that will strengthen your skills. Also, be realistic about your skill level when you are looking for volunteer programs.
- It will expand your network – when we say network, we mean that your network is all the people you know and all the people they know. When you volunteer, it will give you the opportunity to meet new people and expand your initial network. These might include staff, clients, other volunteers, board members, and suppliers. You never know which of these people could help you and in what way they might help you.
- It will build your confidence – when you are unemployed for some time, one of the most important things is actually maintaining your confidence. It will also be able to help when you are discouraged by your endless searching for a new job or a career path you want to take. It can help you feel more active, useful, and productive.
- It will help you to get to know yourself – by knowing your skills, interest, accomplishments, and values you will be able to set a foundation for your future career success. Volunteer experience can be a perfect way to learn more about yourself and how to grow and develop even further. It will also be a perfect means to see how other people view you and your skills.
- It will give you a chance to make a difference – volunteering can have a valuable and real effect on people, communities, and generally, society. Not only will you give other people the necessary help, but you will also be able to set an example for other people as well. Who knows, maybe they will be inspired by you and they will take up volunteering?
Conclusion
By helping other people, you will get the chance to boost your career, but also your overall well-being. When you are given the right role while you volunteer, everyone is in a win-win situation. You will be able to prosper, make friends, and have fun.