8 Career Benefits From Volunteering
Volunteering has always been a passion of mine. But it took on new meaning in the second half of my career as I discovered that I have more time and skills to offer to causes that I care most about.
There are endless opportunities, and through each of my experiences, I've met amazing people and have seen the positive impact this work can have on a community.
While the primary goal is to help others, there are often benefits that help the volunteer in their personal and professional journey. Here are some ideas of how you can help yourself while also helping others.
1. Networking
Build your network by connecting with people who you might not otherwise meet. Through volunteering, you'll gain access to a more diverse set of contacts, new ideas, and opportunities.
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2. Learn About Different Market Sectors
Consider using your skills to gain first-hand knowledge in a different employment sector. For instance, if you are an accountant and interested in government, volunteer your professional skills at the local level to see what it's like and assess if that's a career path you might want to take. Through your time as a volunteer, you'll make connections and meet potential mentors that might be willing to help you in that career move.
3. Skill-Boosting
Interested in advancing your sought-after industry skills? Consider finding a related volunteer opportunity to gain practical experience. Non-profits are thrilled to have help and you’ll be doing something good for the world while increasing your proficiency and confidence.
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4. Explore New Areas of Interest
Are you curious about a different career but not sure you want to commit? Find a related volunteer role and do that in your spare time to see if it’s something you want to pursue further. Real-life experience and first-hand knowledge are far more insightful than academic learning or research.
5. Professional Team Building
Professional teams need to bond, build trust, and respect each other. A great way to nurture that type of connection is through volunteer experiences. Many companies will sponsor or provide time for teams to participate in charitable events because of the benefits to the community and the team members.
6. Happiness and Renewed Energy
Neuroscience research shows a positive mental response to volunteering and donating to good causes. This is sometimes referred to as the ‘helpers high’. This feeling of well-being can create a positive outlook which might translate into increased energy or renewed passion for your work.
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7. Build Your Resume
Potential employers notice volunteer gigs as this information provides insight into your personal brand and character. Couple that with increased skills and breadth of experience, and you’ll have a win-win way to build your resume and differentiate yourself from competing candidates.
8. Fill Job Gaps
If you find yourself in between jobs, volunteer work can be a positive way to fill the time and make connections while you search for your next role. Volunteering can help you build skills and experience while also showing potential employers that you will persevere and be a solutionist when faced with a challenge.
Finding Volunteer Opportunities
Now that you understand all the benefits of volunteering, you'll need to find opportunities. Check out local options with food banks, local government, churches, and schools, or try these websites to find something that matches your schedule and interests.
Volunteer Match: The largest network for non-profit opportunities to match inspired people with inspiring causes.
LinkedIn: LinkedIn is widely used for job searches, but it includes volunteer opportunities as well.
Just Serve: This service connects volunteers’ interests with community needs.
American Red Cross: You may be surprised at the wide variety of opportunities with the Red Cross.
Why not apply your skills to a passion or favorite cause? Through volunteering you'll make a valuable contribution and benefit in more ways than you can imagine.
Related:
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Find a Job Fast: The Job Search Accelerator For Career Professionals
Meet The Writer!
Hi! My name is Terri Seydel. I'm a learner by nature and believe that all decisions begin with curiosity. When I write, I seek to nurture the reader's curiosity with intriguing content and strive to inspire their next decision. Whether the reader's intent is for education, growth, or a purchasing decision, I will help them along that journey with interesting, meaningful, and high-quality content. You can find me on Linkedin.
