In this time of economic insecurity, if you are not constantly upgrading your working skills during your job search, you’re making yourself vulnerable in a fiercely competitive job market. However, going back to school might not be the right choice for everyone right now. Volunteering can serve a number of benefits that will inevitably assist you in your job search, aside from helping out your community.
Gaining and developing skills
Volunteering can be a great way to either gain or update your job skills. When you find the right organization to volunteer for, there may be several options available to you. Use clerical or administrative opportunities to sharpen your typing skills or to increase your proficiency in personal computer applications such as Microsoft Office. If you volunteer for a special event, be sure to be outgoing to increase your customer service skills. Think of volunteerism in more than just altruistic terms; think of it as informal education.
Networking
Every time you step outside your home, you have the opportunity to network. Take advantage of volunteering as a way to gain new personal and professional connections in a low-pressure setting. If you are on the shy side, volunteering is a much less daunting way of getting yourself out there. Nonprofit volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds and you never know who you might run into. If you are currently unemployed, take some time to get to know your fellow volunteers. You may be working alongside human resource representatives or other influential individuals that can assist you in your job search.
Gaining a competitive advantage
If you are looking for employment at a nonprofit organization, you can get your foot in the door ahead of the rest by
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