Here's how you can utilize your volunteer experience to pivot into a new career post-layoff.

1 Skill Inventory

Your first step is to take stock of the skills you've gained through volunteering. Reflect on the tasks you've handled and the roles you've played. Did you lead a team, manage social media accounts, or organize events? These are all marketable skills. Write them down and consider how they can apply to different job roles. For example, event planning can translate into project management skills, while leading a team can demonstrate leadership potential. This inventory will serve as a foundation for your job search and help you articulate your competencies to potential employers.

2 Resume Revamp

Next, integrate your volunteer experience into your resume. Position it strategically alongside your professional experience, highlighting transferable skills and achievements. Use action verbs to describe your volunteer work, such as 'coordinated', 'managed', or 'implemented', which convey a sense of responsibility and initiative. Tailor your resume for each job application, ensuring that the volunteer experience you include is relevant to the job you're applying for. This approach will show employers that you've continued to develop professionally, even outside of a traditional employment setting.

4 Skill Enhancement

Consider further developing the skills you've honed while volunteering. Look for certifications or courses that can formalize your experience into recognized qualifications. For instance, if you've been involved in fundraising or grant writing as a volunteer, taking a course in nonprofit management could be beneficial. This demonstrates to employers that you're committed to continuous learning and professional development, making you a more competitive candidate.

5 Interview Prep

When preparing for interviews, use your volunteer experiences to illustrate your skills and character. Employers are often looking for real-world examples of problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. Prepare anecdotes that showcase how you've overcome challenges or achieved goals through your volunteer work. This will help you make a memorable impression during interviews and demonstrate how your non-professional experiences have prepared you for the role you're seeking.

6 Value Proposition

Finally, articulate your unique value proposition. What makes you stand out from other candidates? Perhaps it's your ability to thrive in diverse teams, your innovative approach to problem-solving, or your firsthand knowledge of community needs. Use your volunteer experience to portray yourself as a well-rounded candidate with a unique blend of skills and perspectives that can benefit the organization you're hoping to join.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?