Volunteering isn't just good for the soul. It can also put you on track to improve your career.

Whether you're currently studying, in work, or out of work, volunteering is a great way to develop new skills build your confidence and show future employees you've got drive and initiative.

Voluntary sector jobs

The clearest career boost from volunteering comes if you are looking to work in the voluntary sector. Whatever experience you have in other sectors, volunteering will give you a chance to find out what areas you could work in and give you a feel for what the voluntary sector is like.

It will also show a sense of commitment, and give you something to talk about in your interview!

For some very competitive jobs (for example, in some of the well-known environmental charities), volunteering is virtually a pre-requisite.

Public sector jobs

Volunteering can have a similar benefit if you want to work in the public sector. Many public sector employers, such as hospitals, involve lots of volunteers. So volunteering yourself can give you an inside view on the organisation.

For some public sector careers, such as social work, relevant voluntary experience might be required in order to access, or as part of, training courses.

Private sector jobs

While you are less likely to find volunteering an advantage in the private sector, it can still help you stand-out at interview. Employers might be particularly impressed if your volunteering shows initiative, commitment and the ability to take responsibility.

Career development

Wherever you work, skills and experience gained through volunteering can prove useful. In fact, some companies now look to volunteering to develop their staff rather than more traditional training programmes.

If you want volunteering to help boost your career think carefully about the skills and experience you need. Don't be afraid to be upfront about this when you apply for opportunities. As long as you are willing to show commitment to your voluntary work, most organisations will welcome the fact that it could have knock-on benefits for you.

Next steps

Our database has more than 800,000 volunteering opportunities right across the country. Start searching now!

If you can't find an opportunity on the database that fits your requirements try approaching a Volunteer Centre for help or go straight to an organisation that interests you, letting them know the skills you have to offer.

You might have to persevere - it's not always easy to find an exact match that suits both you and the organisation.

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