Ways to focus on job search Volunteer and boost your career
Finding a new job, or first job, that’s right for you won’t necessarily happen overnight, but there are plenty of things you can do to make the most of your time while you search.
Spending a few hours a week on increasing your range of skills could help you stand out to potential employers.
Volunteering, for example, has so many benefits – not just for others, but also for you as a jobseeker – and can significantly improve your chances of finding paid work. It gives you the chance to try things you might not have done before, and brush up on some skills that you haven’t used in a while.
Charities and not-for-profit organisations rely on hundreds of thousands of volunteers in the UK
Be patient and persevere. Finding the right opportunity can take time, but believe in yourself and every step that you take along the way will make all your efforts worthwhile. so there are plenty of opportunities out there. Here’s how volunteering can give you an advantage in the job market…
GAINING SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
It can be difficult to stay focused in your hunt for work. Here, Work Coach Lwsi Morgan gives her five top tips to keep things productive… 1
Thoroughly read and study job descriptions. Spend time tailoring your CV to suit the role you’re going for, highlighting your skills and strengths. Make yourself an obvious fit.
2
Increase the places where you look: complete online and newspaper searches, utilise social media, research local companies and reach out to employers directly.
3
Have confidence in yourself and stay positive. Recall all of your past accomplishments, knowing you can achieve more.
Take a break if you’re losing focus so you can recharge.
4
Prepare for job interviews. Practise online interview questions, and develop a range of examples and evidence that will showcase all your competencies and skills.
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You’ll learn new skills, meet new people and gain valuable experience. Volunteering also shows you’re keen to commit to something different – that’s a big positive for employers. Being part of a structured volunteer programme could give you the chance to flex your communication skills. For example, you could write a blog or newsletter that gets you noticed. You can talk with first hand experience about the importance of sound line management, the benefits of teamwork and using your initiative. These are all qualities that you can take forward into a future role. And don’t think you’re taking advantage by joining a voluntary organisation to enhance your own skills – so long as you’re dedicated and hard-working, they won’t mind about your motives.
EXPLORING NEW OPPORTUNITIES
If you’re considering a change of career, volunteering allows you to try different roles, organisations or types of work while you decide what to do next.
IMPROVING YOUR CV
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Gaps in your CV can be filled by volunteering. It tells employers that you’re motivated to keep active and develop yourself between jobs.
WIDENING YOUR NETWORK OF CONTACTS
Meeting a wider network of people while you volunteer can progress your job hunt. Choose an area that interests you for future work, and it could bring you into contact with people who can tell you about job and training opportunities.