How can you build confidence and be an effective volunteer?

2 Start small and set realistic goals

Another tip to build your confidence as a volunteer is to start small and set realistic goals for yourself. Don't overwhelm yourself with too many tasks, expectations, or hours. Instead, choose a role that suits your skills, availability, and comfort level. For example, if you are shy or nervous about public speaking, you might prefer a behind-the-scenes role, such as data entry, research, or writing. If you are more outgoing and sociable, you might enjoy a front-line role, such as mentoring, teaching, or fundraising. Whatever role you choose, make sure you have clear and achievable goals that you can track and celebrate.

3 Seek feedback and support

A third tip to build your confidence as a volunteer is to seek feedback and support from others. Feedback can help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement, as well as recognize the value and impact of your work. Support can help you cope with any challenges, frustrations, or doubts that you might encounter along the way. You can seek feedback and support from your volunteer coordinator, supervisor, peers, or beneficiaries. You can also join online or offline communities of volunteers who share your cause, interests, or goals.

4 Learn and grow

A fourth tip to build your confidence as a volunteer is to learn and grow from your experience. Volunteering can offer you many opportunities to acquire new knowledge, skills, and perspectives that can benefit you personally and professionally. You can learn from the people you serve, the staff you work with, the tasks you perform, and the challenges you overcome. You can also seek out additional training, resources, or mentoring that can enhance your skills and competencies. By learning and growing as a volunteer, you will boost your confidence, resume, and network.

5 Reflect and appreciate

A fifth tip to build your confidence as a volunteer is to reflect and appreciate your experience. Reflection can help you evaluate your progress, achievements, and challenges, as well as identify your next steps, goals, and opportunities. Appreciation can help you acknowledge your contributions, efforts, and impact, as well as express your gratitude to those who supported you along the way. You can reflect and appreciate your experience by keeping a journal, writing a testimonial, sharing a story, or giving a thank-you note.

6 Have fun and be yourself

A sixth and final tip to build your confidence as a volunteer is to have fun and be yourself. Volunteering is not only a way to make a difference, but also a way to enjoy yourself and express your personality. Don't be afraid to show your enthusiasm, humor, creativity, or curiosity. Don't be too hard on yourself or compare yourself to others. Instead, embrace your uniqueness, strengths, and passions. By having fun and being yourself, you will make your volunteering experience more enjoyable, memorable, and meaningful.

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?