Volunteering is typically seen as a selfless act, whereby an individual offers time and resources toward the betterment of others.
Yet volunteers often report profound and positive “side effects” which benefit them in their professional lives.
According to Tshego Bokaba, corporate social investment manager at the insurance company Momentum Metropolitan, employees gain new skills through volunteering.
“Thanks to our volunteering programme, we have seen many of our employees gain new skills through engaging in a diverse range of activities, which they wouldn’t normally be exposed to in their day-to-day role.
“In many cases, these new skills have even contributed to an employee’s promotion or some other form of recognition.”
Bokaba shares three positive side effects of volunteering that will benefit people in their careers.
Identifying new skills
When volunteering, it is likely that you will participate in activities or perform tasks that you would not normally be exposed to in your daily life.
Volunteering will help you to learn a wide range of skills – from leadership to problem-solving – which will benefit you in your career. It will also help you step outside your comfort zone and onto the next rung on your career ladder.
Inspiring growth
By coming into contact with people from all walks of life, you will grow. Volunteering takes us out of our comfort zone, which makes us vulnerable.
Bokaba believes that when we are vulnerable, it is easier for us to authentically connect with people from different backgrounds. Meeting people from all walks of life helps one to become more empathetic and put oneself in another’s shoes.
“At work we will often find ourselves struggling to navigate our way around a problem or conflict.
The perspective you have gained through your volunteering interactions will make you better equipped to handle these issues, and find a compromise, path or resolution that will benefit all parties.”
Gaining experience
While helping others, you’ll pick up practical work experience. Volunteering will help you practise your skills while showing potential employers that you are a proactive team player who is connected to something greater than yourself, says Bokaba. This ultimately makes you more employable.
Volunteering is also a great way for graduates to gain practical work experience across a wide variety of tasks and functions.
“Experience is always a tricky one for young job seekers. Employers generally want to hire candidates with some experience, but experience cannot be gained without being hired.
“Volunteering is one way to bridge this gap, helping youth to gain valuable experience that will bolster their curriculum vitae and help them on their career journeys.”
