Help wanted: volunteer your way to a new job

Many smart professionals are volunteering to enhance their job searches and advance their careers. Sharing a few hours a week, or even a month, will allow you to maintain and strengthen your professional network. You never know who you may meet while sharing your talents with a deserving organization. Volunteering allows you to avoid gaps in your resume. No one knows if you are being paid for your contribution or not. You can also enhance your professional skills and possibly explore a new career path, as volunteering allows you to establish contacts in a new field. You also will be in the mix as new opportunities emerge.

You can certainly make a case for volunteering during a career transition. A perfect example of volunteer service paying off is Diane Rehm, host of WAMU’s The Diane Rehm Show. In 1973, Rehm walked into the (NPR) affiliate radio station at  American University to volunteer with no prior experience. On that first day she was asked to assist the station manager when Home Show host Irma Aandahl called in sick. Ten months later, Aandahl hired Diane as an assistant producer.

If you would like to volunteer during a career transition, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Pick a cause about which you feel strongly.
• Understand the commitment. Organizations should provide you with a detailed job description of all aspects of the position and what special qualifications you need.
• Contribute in an area where you can bring your best. This does not necessarily mean you have prior experience, but that you can contribute in a meaningful way with minimal assistance.
• Treat your work seriously and always behave in a professional manner.
• Be sincere in your commitment. Organizations are counting on your help and support. Do not merely use volunteering as a stepping stone to a job.

There are many services available that assist interested volunteers in finding a charity to support. Volunteer Match is an online service that connects individuals with good causes in their community. Locally you can contact BVU’s Volunteer Central or Baltimore County to begin your search.

While it’s appropriate to feel discouraged by losing your job, take this time to see where you can make a difference in your community. It may be a wonderful opportunity in disguise that will allow you to advance your career objectives while making an important contribution to a cause about which you are passionate.

Keep this great quote by Susan J. Ellis in mind… “Paul Revere earned his living as a silversmith. But what do we remember him for?”