In this troubled economy, workers are finding new ways to land dream jobs. Whether someone is trying to land that first job, recover after unemployment, or move up the career ladder, volunteer work and community outreach can be a great way to network and prove your skills and talents, all while helping others. Here are five great ways to land that perfect job by helping others:
Charity work
Not only does volunteering help you network in your community, it also gives you great credits for your résumé. Just a few weekends or weeks spent organizing and working at charitable events in your town can connect you with valuable professionals. Additionally, you’ll experience the rewarding feeling of giving to others.
Intern
Whether paid or unpaid, internships provide a great way to gain experience in your field while showing off your talents. At the end of your internship, you may have a job offer, recommendation for another job in your field, or, at the very least, an item for your résumé.
Network
Volunteer to help plan a party or gathering of professionals in your field. Take every opportunity to network with other business professionals, including offering to help professionals with community projects. Once you’ve landed a job, the networking should continue as you serve on committees and attend events in your community that can position you for an opportunity to advance when one becomes available.
Serve on a committee
Serving as a board member or committee member will put you in contact with others in your chosen field. Even those who are in fields that aren’t related to yours may have contacts in your field, so it’s important to take every networking opportunity available. Serving on a committee has the added benefit of allowing you to make a difference in the business world in your area.
Teach
Once you’ve progressed to a certain point in your field, you’ll now have the ability to educate others. Consider discussing your career experiences with classrooms at nearby colleges. Volunteer to teach at a local community center. In doing so, you’ll not only help others but you’ll impress the community with your knowledge and ability to communicate.
During your career, you’ll likely find that you often spend extra hours working without pay, whether it’s staying late at work or working in the community. If you’ll look at those opportunities as bolstering your career possibilities, you’ll see them not as unpaid time but as an investment in your future in your field.
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