Volunteering is spending time willingly to help someone else without being paid. It can be formal or informal.

Informal volunteering includes helping friends and family with things like babysitting, chores and

Formal volunteering usually takes place through a charity or other not-for-profit or community organisation.

We have created a list of how volunteering can help your community while also helping you and your career.

6 ways that volunteering can help your career

1. Volunteering is as credible as paid work.

Hiring managers consider volunteering a valuable advantage when looking at potential employees. When you have a volunteering experience to add to your resume, you stand out over job candidates who don’t take the time to give back to society. Volunteering highlights your character, passion, and determination! It shows you have the enthusiasm, energy, and willingness to offer more than the bare minimum.

2. Volunteering can be helpful in a job interview

Volunteering will offer you skills that can be used throughout your career development. It shows potential employers that you can take initiative and that you’re willing to give your own time to improve the world for other people.

3. Learn new skills

Volunteering offers the chance to learn new skills that could be applicable to future job opportunities. You can learn transferable skill from a volunteer job that can help land you your next dream job.

4. Volunteering can make you be grateful

Volunteering can give us a deeper sense of perspective. It helps you to realise how lucky you are and instil a positive attitude. Learning about cultures and ways of life that are different from one of your upbringing will increase your social flexibility and expand your world-view. It will also raise awareness of the issues that other people deal with and will increase important social skills like empathy and teamwork. All types of volunteering can benefit the community and leave you glowing at the fact you’ve done something good.

5. Grows your network

By volunteering, you will grow your network with personal and professional relationships. You never know who you will meet and how that connection can lead to career opportunities.

6. Volunteering connects you with others and can increase your social life

Volunteering helps you to meet new people! If you’re lonely, or simply want to widen your social circle, volunteering can be a great way to meet new people. It strengthens your ties to the community and exposes you to people with similar interests. The benefits of consistent socialising include better brain function and lower risk for depression and anxiety.

Interested in Volunteering?

Check out – Go Volunteer and Volunteering Australia.

Or Speak to your Employment Adviser or Disability Employment Advocate to find out more, contact them here.