Volunteering is a great way to get real on-the-job training, create new networks, boost your resume, give talking points in a job interview, and provide you with references for the future.

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Volunteering for your

Career

Key Take Notes:

  1. Volunteering is a great way to get real on the job training. It is especially beneficial if you are unsure about this industry or role. This will allow you to grab a quick taster to see if it aligns with you before you fully commit to a career.
  2. You will be able to grow your network within the industry quicker.
  3. You will be able to add value to your resume and become more hireable.
  4. It will require a lot of planning from your end to ensure you can sustain the volunteering for a period of time.

 

To volunteer or not to volunteer…that is the question. Firstly, let’s define what we mean by volunteering in the job. We are not talking about helping out your community, or local dog shelter…we are talking about going into a workplace that does pay their employees, and to work there for free. Yes, free!

You may ask “why on earth would I want to work for free?” Fair question, but let us first say: nothing in this world is truly free. We all pay a price somewhere, somehow. So whilst an organisation may take you on to do “free labour”, they are paying you in many different ways. Not every exchange needs to be monetary.

You need to look at the bigger picture – what else will you be gaining from volunteering your time, skills and labour? You will gain knowledge, experience and connections. Some may argue this is invaluable. Yet, we can indeed put a value to it. It will lead to a: stronger resume, mentorship, insider knowledge, networking, visibility, fast tracking career and oh so much more.

Let’s answer some common questions about work-placement volunteering:

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1. How long should I volunteer my time for? 

You can volunteer for a short period. Even a month can impact your future by having recent, relevant experience on your resume. There are no deadlines to how long you should volunteer, however, it is always best to stay as long as you can until you find permeant paying employment to maximise your experience and knowledge.

2. How can I find a workplace to volunteer with?

Pick up that phone and start making calls to the companies you wish to work for in the future, or those that will look good on your resume. Speak with HR and explain your situation and request the chance to step in (even if it is half a day a week to learn on the job) risk free, no pay.

3. What if I am time and money poor?

This is where careful planning is required. Volunteer the time you can afford to give. This may mean you will need to pick up a casual or part time role elsewhere, whilst you volunteer. Even a few hours a week can add great value to your career development.

If you need a good goal planner to set you up for success, then download this one for free.

4. Is volunteering a good idea?

It is not a 100% guaranteed solution to your career jumpstart, but it will 100% help. It will provide you with valuable industry insight, boost your resume, provide you key talking points in job interviews and give you the chance to start making your mark in the industry.

5. What if I like where I volunteer and want to become an offical employee? 

This is great, it always helps if you get to try before you buy. This opportunity goes both ways. You get to show case your skills to the company and the company can show you their culture and career value add. If you feel you are both a good match, then speak with management about a more long term solution. Make sure you do your best whilst on the job to truely show your value. This is not just to try and grab a new job role from the company, but to safe guard your reputation in the industry as the company you volunteer at may refer you to another opportunity, and also be a future reference. So remember to come with your ‘A-game’ and don’t burn bridges.

At the end of the day, this is a personal choice to make, and it might even be the last choice on your list. However, remember, it is a great way to start getting as much experience as you can in the easiest way possible. In a world where a Junior employee is required to have 5 plus years under the belt, volunteering can be the best head start you could ever give yourself.

This, of course, can be for any level in your career. Whether you are starting out, or want to get to the next stage, or make a total career shift, volunteering your time can be the golden ticket you need. You can even ask to shadow and step-up to new projects within your organisation. There are more than one way to approach the situation.

Need career coaching and support? Then reach out to us today.

 

My Career Angels…become who you want to be