Why volunteer? A better question to ask yourself is why not volunteer? Participating in volunteer work provides great benefits for everyone involved, and is likely to improve your future prospects as well as your current circumstances. Think about that cause you are passionate about – rescuing abused animals, preserving the environment, creating a safe place for the homeless. Whatever it may be; this is your chance to make a difference. Volunteering isn’t about finding a dull bit of unpaid work to help you get that job you actually want, it’s about using your time to do something you love. Your perspective is key: if you see it as this, any other doors it opens up will simply be an added bonus.
Volunteer work isn’t guaranteed to find you a job, but it will definitely make a difference to your CV and ultimately it will enable you to spend your time doing something you believe in. Doing something you love will undoubtedly improve your current circumstances. We all know being unemployed can be emotionally draining, often leaving you doubting your skills or simply feeling restless and rearing to get out of the house.Purpose, passion and perseverance are three vital ingredients that make the difference between living and surviving. Why not invest your time into volunteering and boost your confidence and motivation?
Time is one of the greatest gifts you can give to anyone. Think about the moments that you value the most, if you took a photo of each of those moments, they will most likely to consist of a collection of your family and friends. Time is precious and it says a lot about character. Employers and recruiters, like us, are ordinary people and they know the importance of time. That’s why volunteer work is valued so highly when it comes to getting a job. It’s a chance to show managers you’re willing to spend time and effort investing into their company or cause.If you don’t think you have what it takes, use your period of unemployment as a chance to gain further abilities. Ask to be given responsibilities and tasks that will help you learn new skills or sharpen the ones you already have.Be confident and develop as many contacts as you can – ask them to direct you to any future jobs or internships that might be arising.
Volunteering might seem quite a daunting process. Maybe you’re not sure where to begin looking for placements or you’re struggling to build up the confidence to do it? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry, there are hundreds of others who feel exactly the same. CAP Job Clubs are here to help. We will teach you vital skills whether it’s building confidence or communicating with employers. Meeting in small groups, CAP Job Clubs will support and encourage you as your search for employment begins.
For more information check out capjobclubs.org or to book your place call 0800 328 0006 or 01553 774881.
Mike Ikwuagwu
The Gateway Church