Most hiring managers consider volunteering as legitimate work experience

Submitted by manager on Thu, 2012-01-12 16:00

By Gregg McLachlan
Founder, WorkCabin.ca

Ask most hiring managers today about how much weight they give to your volunteer experience, and they will likely say the same thing: A LOT.

One hiring manager in the environmental sector recently summed it up this way: "Your volunteer experience really shows me how serious you are about the field."

He also went on to say that your volunteer experience shows you understand what's involved in the career. Example, if you've done volunteer research work for an organization that studies birds in a mosquito-ridden wetland, you know all about how the insects are a fact of life for worl in this field. That's a big bonus for a hiring manager who's worried about inexperienced first-timers quitting (yes, it does happen!).

As Donna Fuscaldo writes on Glassdoor.com, After you’ve landed your volunteer job it’s important to list it on your resume. These days hiring managers consider volunteering as legitimate work experience. What’s more, it shows you’re not just sitting around, but are out there trying to keep your skills fresh.  Don’t pretend it was a paying job but do make sure to highlight the expertise you gleaned and honed from the volunteering experience."

Many smaller organizations will welcome your volunteer time. Start making a list. And then make a plan, taking into consideration your strategy to gain employment in your chosen field.

Making a great impression in volunteer work can also build your list of references.

Overall, savvy job seekers know volunteering is a win-win endeavour.