You must have heard about the importance of volunteering in
terms of helping job seekers develop real job skills. You can then add these
new skills of yours to your resume, which can then demonstrate to potential
employers how passionate you are about your chosen career. Another good reason
you should consider becoming a volunteer is to make connections with the professionals
in your industry. Volunteering is such an excellent way of improving your
network.
As a first time job seeker, you are not yet an expert in
searching for a job. Thus, you can expect to learn a lot from your volunteering
experience.
Just like applying for a real job, you will need to write a
cover letter to apply for a volunteering position. In your cover letter, you
should clearly state what kind of workplace you’re looking for and what
characteristics of yours will make you a good fit for the position. There is a
big chance also that you will be asked to provide samples of your work, or
proof of whatever previous experience you may have.
The internet is an excellent source of information about the
many volunteering opportunities in your area. You may also contact
organizations directly to inquire about the positions they have for volunteers.
As you try to find such opportunities, you will learn that timing is very
important. You will eventually know when the perfect season is for doing
volunteering, and when it isn’t. All these things will help prepare you for the
challenges of looking for a real job in the future.
The Interview
Applicants to volunteer work still need to undergo an interview
to make sure they are fit for the position. Thus, you will have to prepare to
be interviewed if you want to be considered for the volunteer work.
The questions will mainly focus on your intention for
applying for volunteer work. If you have experience doing the same in the past,
you will be asked to elaborate on it. If not, you will be asked to explain why
you’ve decided to spend time being a volunteer.
Conduct in the Workplace
As a volunteer, you still have to act in a professional
manner. This is also a great opportunity for you to get noticed, which may
eventually lead to you getting considered for a full time position. Be sure to
dress appropriately, come to work on time, and build good professional
relationships with the people you’re working with.
Any personal coach would
recommend volunteering to gain work experience, and also because the things you
have to do to get a volunteering position are the same things you will have to
do as you search for a paid job. And so, joining a volunteer program will help
you develop job search skills, which you will need in the near future.
