Whether you’re already employed in your dream job or you’re a fresh graduate looking for your first dream role, it is very important to
consider volunteering if you have never done it before. If you are not sure why, Nnenna Ofoegbu has given us five important reasons to become a volunteer.
Gain or improve an existing skillset
Taking up a corporate internship or volunteering with a social enterprise will give you the opportunity to level up your skillset. Whether it’s your I.T proficiency or presentation skills, use volunteering as a valid way to learn something new or improve an existing skill. Working with other skilled colleagues will also enhance your skills and improve your interpersonal abilities. By keeping a journal during your time volunteering, you will be able to self-reflect on your personal and professional development. Ensure you update your CV, as additional skills add value to it.
Shows ambition
Generally speaking, ambitious minded people are more likely to get ahead in the workplace. Whereas the passive and unassertive person tends to be overlooked for promotion.
Volunteering helps you to create the right impression within the organization. It shows that not only are you willing to give up your time for free but that you’re career-minded and take your professional development seriously.
It shows senior management that you’re focused, responsible and enthusiastic member of the team. It shows assertiveness. Now all you must do is bring your A-game and add value to the organization by positively contributing to the team.
Improves your network
Volunteering can be a useful way of expanding your professional network. Get involved and try to participate with any department or team activities, social gatherings, and work meetings.
This is also a good time to look for a career mentor if you don’t have one already. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a senior manager. It could be your co-worker or a colleague from a different team or department.
Boosts your confidence
Not only will volunteering boost your skills, but your self-confidence will also benefit. It takes guts and tenacity to get out there and join a new organization as a volunteer. It’s a positive achievement and something to feel proud of. It will make you feel good about yourself and confident in your capabilities.T
You’ll get to see behind the scenes which could inspire you to suggest some ideas like for a charity fundraiser or a corporate social responsibility activity for example.
Brings you closer to your dream job
Whether it’s your first role you’re chasing or you want to pivot into a new career sector through volunteering, it’s the sum total of all your newly acquired skills and connections that will bring you closer to where you ultimately want to go career or even business-wise (even if they don’t offer you a job at the end of it).
If you are looking for employment, then volunteering with the right organization certainly helps.
Phew, that was a very enlightening read. We are sure you have learnt one or two things. Ready to become a volunteer? We bet you are!
Source: She Leads Africa