The economy is getting harder, especially for the unemployed. Companies have the power to choose among candidates, so much that many will not even consider unemployed workers, who are believed to be out of practice and less desirable. (NPR: The Hard Truth -Companies Don’t Hire Unemployed)
Until things change, younger workers or those that have been unemployed extensively need to be proactive to sharpen their skills and build their network. Volunteering for a nonprofit will allow them to do just that and create some social good along the way. Here are three ways how:
Be a professional volunteer
Most people think of volunteering as a day serving soup at a shelter. However, remember that nonprofits need accountants, marketers, IT experts, graphic designers, and lawyers, just like any company would. Offer your professional skills to nonprofits to keep yourself sharp while helping a good cause.
Also, being a professional volunteer may also open more opportunities for you step into the spotlight and take greater responsibility. Skip the work place politics and bureaucracy and jump to the next level doing what you know you’re great at.
Once the job market opens up again, you’ll have a impressive resume and perhaps even sharper skills that you started with.
Test out new skills and passion
For some people, volunteering can be a great way to test out news skills and passions. I’ve seen accountants discover they’re great event planners and designers and consequentially changed careers all together.
Most nonprofits have projects in a variety of disciplines through out the year. Offer to help with the annual fundraiser, test out our social media marketing skills, or give sales / fund raising a try.
Network with the best
The nonprofit world attract of a lot of generous and talented people. I’ve been able to work with more successful executives and entrepreneurs than I could ever have imagined as a consultant. Many nonprofit board members are high successful in their professional lives and are looking to do more. Work hard and show genuine care for your craft and maybe you’ll catch their attention!
At the end of the day, working for a nonprofit will be good for the world and your career. Get out there and ask what you can do!
P.S. We are looking for professional volunteers with background in accounting and law. Shoot me an email if you or friends you know are interested: jhbao@onevietnam.org.
I learned and grew a lot in college being on the board of a community service club. You meet incredibly passionate, kind, and ambitious people while volunteering and doing good. It was a great experience, and I encourage others to give it a try! Just start small so you don’t burn out =)