One of the hardest things that anyone can write for themselves is a resume. Having to detail your own achievements is challenging; primarily if you were taught to be humble and not brag about your abilities and successes. The thing is, a resume is your chance to do that without it being rude! You can brag away on the resume about your job achievements and awards, your personality and your education – and employers want to see that!
One thing that should always be on your resume is volunteer work. There is plenty of inspiration out there about why you should serve those in your community, such as the article on Cynthia Telles that talks through achieving positive health outcomes by helping those in most need. Volunteering could make an employer think of you in a better light than any other candidate for the job you are going for. So, let’s check out seven reasons you should be volunteering right now – other than the fact it looks good for you!
- You Feel You Should. You are in a privileged position. It doesn’t mean that you are rich, to be privileged, but it does mean that you can stay warm, eat and afford healthcare. If this is you, then try to picture life without those things. It’s this that gives you the drive to volunteer for others who don’t have the experience that you have. It makes you humble.
- It Could Be You. We are all only two months away from ruin. Just two missed paychecks pull down the life you’ve built for yourself. The people you would serve in a soup kitchen, or you would help with a free clinic; those people could be you if you aren’t driven to succeed. Volunteering gives back and allows you to appreciate your position more.
- The Impact. How many people do you think that you could positively impact without volunteering? When you give back, you are making a small gesture for you but a massive gesture for someone else. You show them that you notice them and you make them feel less invisible. It makes a difference.
- You’re Needed. Is it selfish to want to feel needed? No. Volunteering can give you that chance to connect to the local community and help it to be a better, more positive place. You can give back a little and make the local area a better place – all because you are needed.
- Meeting People. Not only will you meet people who need your help, but you’ll meet other volunteers who could inspire you to do even more than help the local community.
- Your Confidence Soars. Knowing that you have had a hand in making a difference to someone’s life is a confidence boost. You have a sense of accomplishment when you volunteer, and that’s something to chase.
- Happiness. As a happy and bouncy individual, you could inspire someone else to be happier. You have a better and more positive effect on those around you when you volunteer. As a result, the happy circles back to you and you feel good.
