There are only so many jobs – and even fewer “good” jobs. Nowadays it is not enough to have the right skill set or training, or even experience in your field. Rounding out a resume with personal accomplishments and a commitment to community service is a great way to impress a potential employer.
WHAT DOES VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE “SAY” TO A POTENTIAL EMPLOYER?
Consistent volunteer experience on a resume relates positive information to a potential employer including:
- You are organized enough personally to find time to volunteer
- You are passionate
- You are thoughtful and not self absorbed
- You are well rounded
- You have a reliable reference and history
Employers want to hire positive and productive employees – volunteering suggests you are both.
WHAT OTHER BENEFITS ARE THERE TO VOLUNTEERING?
There are many personal and professional benefits to volunteering such as:
- Volunteering allows you to “escape” your own problems for awhile
- It puts your problems in perspective as you realize there are others worse off then yourself
- It makes you feel good about yourself which can lead to other positive behaviors creating a self perpetuating positive feedback loop that can impact on all your relationships
- It restores your faith in humanity and brings you closer to other people
Also volunteering allows you to meet people involved in the field in which you work or want to work. If you love to cook and want a job as a chef, volunteering to cook for a shelter or to work at a food pantry can provide you a great recommendation and even contacts. People in specific industries move in similar circles, tap into those circles and you could land a job before you even apply.
Establishing a habit of volunteer work is also character building – it helps craft your life around values and ideas that are positive and nurturing, making you a better person and setting an example for your kids, friends and co-workers. And finally, it is actually fun – finding something you love to do and doing it for others is a rewarding, fun and often satisfying way to spend your time. For a list of places or ideas where you can make a difference, call the school.
