u oThe unemployment rate has been hovering around 10% in the United States for over a year now, and this is the worst unemployment we’ve seen in a few decades. Young people are really feeling the effects of scarce job growth, because they have less experience, and it’s tough for them to convince employers to give them a chance when they don’t have the experience employers are looking for. Many companies have cut back from hiring college graduates and less experienced staff, because they don’t have the extra money to lay on the line if those young, inexperienced workers don’t pan out. But, that doesn’t mean that young people should give up or settle for jobs that they don’t want. One great way to beef up your resume and look more attractive to employers is to volunteer. Here are a few tips to help you utilize volunteering to improve the lives of others and your future career path.
Choose A Volunteer Trip Instead Of A Summer Job
Instead of making $7.00 an hour working at The Gap, try volunteering with a non-profit organization in another country, state, or city. Summer jobs might put a little money in your pocket, but long-term volunteer trips can give you great experience in the workplace.
Choose a Trip That Coincides With Your Job Concentration
For instance, if you want to be involved with project management in construction, volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and travel around the country planning and building houses for families around the country.
Volunteering Doesn’t Need To Be Abroad
You don’t need to volunteer in another country to gain great experience and improve your resume. You can volunteer in areas with a need for teachers and daycare if you’re looking to be a teacher. You can also volunteer at the local YMCA if you’re looking to be involved in sports education or sports medicine.
Take Your Volunteering To The Next Level
Don’t volunteer for yourself. Do it for the people you’ll be helping, and the easiest way to make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons is to pick a volunteer opportunity that you’re passionate about. The more passionate you are about the volunteer work, the more you’ll be willing to pour into it with a selfless attitude.
It’s obvious that volunteering is a very rewarding activity, but remember that it is real experience that you shouldn’t overlook when interviewing for a job. Employers love hearing about your volunteer experiences, and they’ll appreciate the fact that you stepped out of your comfort zone and helped people with a team player mentality. Don’t volunteer just for a resume booster, but if you do, make sure you list it on your resume.
