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Why voluntary work is perfect for your CV
If your CV is lacking in work experience, then you’ve come to the right place. This article is going to help you bolster your experience and create a better CV.
There are numerous benefits to taking on voluntary work. Additional experience is not just the only positive you’ll gain. You will also be able to learn new skills and develop existing ones.
Here’s why voluntary work is perfect for your CV…
If you’ve recently left education
Having to write your very first CV after leaving education is a daunting task. With little to no work experience you are going to struggle to complete anything. However, all is not lost, and volunteering can save the day!
Contact your local charity shop to see if they are hiring. This will help fill any gaps whilst you are looking for part time or full time employment. You should always keep busy and think of ways to fill out your CV.
There are also more ways to gain experience and skills for your CV. Please read our article to find out more – How to gain more skills and experience for your CV.
It shows initiative
Whether you’re in between jobs or have just left education, voluntary work is a great way to keep busy. It also shows a future employer that you are able to take the initiative.
If an employer sees a huge gap from the time you left education or work to your application date, there is going to be a problem. They are going to wonder how hungry you are to work and keep busy. Having a focused career goal is important, and should show on your CV. So take the initiative and don’t wait for opportunities to present themselves. Make your own opportunities.
Proves you are a hard worker
Anybody that volunteers there time for free is an absolute star as far as we’re concerned, and an employer will think the same! It proves that you are not afraid to work, and when you are not getting paid it really does make a lasting impression on an employer.
One of the most important qualities an employer is looking for is a hard worker. Someone who isn’t afraid to roll there sleeves up and get stuck in. Whether that’s during normal working hours or overtime, the employer will see this as a very positive trait.
Provides great references
Voluntary work also provides great references for your CV – especially if this is your only work experience. This is why it’s important that you do work really hard during your time volunteering, as you can walk away with a fantastic reference.
Don’t fall into the trap of taking on voluntary work just to give your CV a facelift, as this may backfire if your boss doesn’t provide an adequate reference. Work as hard as you can every second of the day and you are guaranteed to get a fantastic reference when it comes to applying for your first job.
Working hard and giving it your all during your time in voluntary work reaps other rewards. You will get used to being on time and working to a schedule. Meeting strict deadlines and helping the needs of the business is vital in any role. So don’t slack off and treat this as a stop gap. Give it your all and gain valuable experience, and a great reference!
For more information on how to volunteer in your local area, please visit the Government website – Take part, volunteer.
