Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day also known as a day of service. Dr. King said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?'” Hence why so many people across the country take today to serve their communities.
It’s a great day for everyone to come together and give back, but did you know there’s an added bonus to helping others (especially if you’re in the midst of a job search)?
Not only will you feel great when you see how you’ve contributed, but you’ll also be able to add that experience to your resume. And who knows who you’ll meet while you’re out there doing good for others. You might meet your next boss, a great networking contact, or find that you really enjoy doing a job you had never considered before. So get out there today and volunteer!
Bonus Tip: Recruiters and employers love seeing volunteer work on resumes—it shows a good sense of character. Plus, if you are interested in learning new skills but know there isn’t a paying job at the moment that will allow you to earn those skills—ask the organization if you can volunteer. This is also a good tip if you are interested in working at an organization that doesn’t currently have a job opening—feel free to diplomatically volunteer your services—you never know, it could turn into a full time job or at the very least make you a more confident candidate.
I volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)rep. It is one of the most rewarding volunteer opportunities. The ability to ensure that a child is getting the proper care and attention is heart warming. IF you ever considered volunteering, then you might check out CASA.
Thanks for the article, but I wonder how come these articles of volunteering are always emphasized as guaranteeing a paid job from ‘can’ in the title or generally over-promising when in fact it has been seen in cases a that job doesn’t result for sure even from volunteering.
I and others personally have volunteered many times with the rewarding feeling and have had a pleasant interaction with whom we met, but at times it has been hard to hear back from some of the people. Also, when meeting certain people the response has been, “I don’t know of anything, but will let you know when I do.” and nothing is still heard of despite following up. Also, there are people who mention to take your resume and they say they will pass around, but nothing progresses.
Any feedback would be appreciated, thanks!
With regards to the last paragraph, I recall volunteering at the local Crisis Center which was very rewarding, but what was disappointing was not ever getting a job there even as I was volunteering with such interest and making the effort to network. I only got one interview for a part-time paid position which I had some experience already for and followed up with all interviewers with thank-you notes and interest, but didn’t get and wasn’t provided an interview for two other part-time positions I applied for as volunteers are always informed of positions and after applying for a 3rd position was told by the HR Director how she has my resume and she will consider me for ‘appropriate’ opportunities.
Also, I have volunteered my time with United Way locally and have passed along my resume to a nice lady I volunteered with and emphasized how I am looking for paid jobs in nonprofits, but no opportunities emerged despite my follow-ups once-in-awhile.
What do you all say?
Any feedback here is greatly appreciated while trying to go along positively and with perseverance. Thanks!