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Have
you ever felt the satisfying rush of helping another
in need? It makes you feel like you can conquer the
world. Through volunteerism, you are rewarded not only
with the satisfaction that you are helping others, but
with tools that are sure to boost your career.
When
you volunteer, you gain skills that can benefit you
in any work place such as the ability to work on a team
and under pressure; how to be dependable and exercise
self-management skills; and even conflict resolution
and decision making skills. Consider the following reasons
to offer your services or the services of your company:
Increase your
team spirit
Build your corporate
character and cultivate your own. Service allows you to
freely give of yourself. You have something to offer.
Because giving is a two way street, you are sure to reap
the reward of gratification that comes from helping others.
Remember you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Manage requests for
contributions
Another thing that makes
volunteering so great is that it is flexible. You may dedicate
as much of your time, talent or money as you like -- as often
as you like -- to whom ever you like. Whether it be a children's
home one Saturday a month or a charity walk once per year,
you and your company can pick one charitable organization
or spread your commitment among several groups. We have all
felt overwhelmed by the number of requests for charitable
donations. If you have established where you give your support,
you can clearly state your commitment(s) without causing offense
when asked to donate by other organizations. Volunteerism
demonstrates visible concern for your community.
Test new career opportunities
You may be exploring
new career opportunities or wondering about your next occupational
move. If so, then volunteering is a great way to test new
career opportunities. You can learn from the hands-on experience
by working in your field of interest and then deciding if
that job is the right fit.
Build a professional
network for success
Network as often as you
can. Potential leads can open up new career opportunities.
Through your volunteer work a supervisor, manager, client,
or even a fellow co-worker can be a potential lead. You will
meet people from all walks of life, from varied communities
and with varied interests and connections. This may help you
establish contacts you may not otherwise have made.
Find a charitable organization
that is a good match for your beliefs and values. Make contact
and ask how you can help. They will be glad to hear from you.
Be careful not to over commit. This will help you avoid burnout
and stress. You may want to make your volunteer role an extension
of the work you already do--or try something completely different.
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