One of the most obvious benefits of volunteering is giving back to the communities and countries you live in. However, as your priorities pile up, it can be hard to keep up with the work you’re volunteering for. Although volunteering may not be as lucrative as it once was, there are still many benefits that it can provide. In addition to helping those in need, it can also help you land a job. In this article, we’ll talk about the various benefits of volunteering that are directly related to your career prospects.
Gain Professional Experience for Your Resume
Volunteering can help you develop many skills. For instance, if you’re in a field you’re passionate about, volunteering can provide you with the necessary technical and work experience to succeed in your job. Although it’s not your career path that you’re planning on pursuing, many experts recommend that students and new professionals consider volunteering as a way to improve their skills.
Develop Key Soft Skills
Even if you’re not planning on pursuing a career in the field you’re passionate about, volunteering can help you develop various soft skills that can be used in different jobs. For instance, if you’re a creative person, volunteering can provide you with the necessary tools and resources to solve problems with minimal effort.
Many organizations struggle with budgets. Finding a solution to their problems requires a problem-solving mindset. Recruiters and employers also see volunteering as a sign of an individual’s commitment and motivation. Volunteering is also a personal motivation boost because it shows an individual’s commitment and passion for the work that they’re passionate about. This type of work showcases an individual’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Improved Physical and Mental Health
Besides improving one’s physical health, volunteering can also help one’s mental health. Helping others without expecting monetary gain can be a beautiful experience. A study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University revealed that regular volunteers are less prone to developing high blood pressure. Aside from improving one’s physical health, volunteering can also help one’s mental health. Prosocial and caring behavior in volunteering can help individuals cope with various mental health issues, such as loneliness and depression.