Five Reasons Why Volunteering is Great for Your Career

Candidates increasingly want to work for businesses that are ethical and sustainable, and corporate social responsibility is a key priority for hiring managers and directors everywhere. This means that volunteering experience is no longer seen as an added bonus, but as a valuable quality on a job application. Including this experience could be what sets you apart from other shortlisted candidates.

Volunteering provides the chance to gain experiences and skills that a regular working environment can’t provide. Employers consider volunteering to be an asset, as they understand that exposure to different environments and working practices have practical application in the workplace.

Here are just a few of the reasons volunteering is not only a great thing to do, but also a great way to boost your career.

1. Exposure to different industries

If you are looking for ways to help grow your career, then volunteering can allow you the opportunity to explore different industries that may have previously been out of your reach. For example, you could volunteer at your local theater, hospital, or community center. This can offer exposure to areas of expertise that interest you, while you also lend a hand to others.

2. Learning new skills

It is important to continually work on your own personal development. Volunteering could give you the chance to learn new skills in areas outside of your comfort zone. For example, helping to organize a fundraiser could give you planning and budgeting skills. Dealing with different kinds of personalities will help grow your interpersonal and relationship building skills, which can help with networking in your professional career.

3. Networking

Volunteering offers a great opportunity to develop personal and professional relationships, as volunteer work attracts people from all walks of life. Meeting and connecting with people in this unique environment is a great way to build lasting relationships. You never know who you might come across and how they could help with your career growth in the future.

4. Keeping yourself grounded

It’s very easy to get wrapped up in your own professional development and begin to take your life for granted. Volunteering can open your eyes to different ways of living, and the importance of helping others in any way that you can. Volunteering can revitalize your mindset and give you a refreshed, positive attitude.

5. Gaining experience

If you want to take your service to the next level and work for a non-profit, volunteering can be a great stepping stone. This expand your professional skill set in a way that differs from the norm, and that you may not have had the chance to experience otherwise. It could turn into a wonderful career for you, or serve as a highlight of your resume going forward.

If you are looking to bring your volunteer experience to a new opportunity, get in touch with one of our expert recruitment consultants or take a look at our job postings.