Volunteering is not only a way to give back to your community, but also a way to build a professional network. By volunteering, you can meet new people, showcase your skills, learn from others, and create opportunities for yourself. In this article, you will learn how to use volunteering to network effectively and strategically.
The first step to use volunteering to build a network is to choose a cause that you are passionate about. This will help you find an organization that aligns with your values and interests, and also attract like-minded people who share your vision. Volunteering for a cause you care about will also make you more motivated, engaged, and enthusiastic, which will reflect positively on your personal brand and reputation.
Selecting a volunteering opportunity related to a cause you are passionate about can be a great starting point. When you volunteer for a cause that resonates with you, it naturally enhances your enthusiasm and commitment. This genuine interest can lead to more meaningful interactions with others who share similar values, laying the foundation for a strong professional network.
Choosing what you’re passionate about keeps you grounded for a very long time. I have volunteered for causes around sickle cell anemia since 2015 effortlessly. This started due to my inquisitive nature in biology class, I got interested in genotypes, and ever since I have volunteered with foundations or research bodies that align with my passion which is awareness and improving the quality of life of people living with Sickle cell anaemia. This has connected me with professionals around the world.
This is very important! Because without caring about the cause you are volunteering about it will be difficult to continue doing it! Being passionate about the cause for example for me I love psychology so where I volunteered was a brain injury ??charity. After meeting with people from there I realised this aligned with my personal interests and met like minded people whilst I was there. When you talk about your passions and are involved in an environment which stimulates you to do better opportunities will present themselves! ??
The second step to use volunteering to build a network is to be proactive and helpful. Don't just show up and do the minimum required tasks, but look for ways to contribute more value and make a difference. For example, you can offer to take on additional responsibilities, suggest new ideas, or mentor other volunteers. By being proactive and helpful, you will demonstrate your skills, initiative, and leadership, and also earn the respect and trust of others.
Proactiveness is key! ?? - Having a purpose and desire to volunteer in the first place will enable you to contribute meaningfully. In turn, this will make you think less about doing the bare minimum and instead have a growth mindset oriented around passion. - When others see you working with such passion, it reflects positively on your character and professionalism. It shows that you're not just there to tick a box but to make a real difference. This can lead to deeper connections, translating into a robust professional network. It’s the quality of connections that bears more value than the quantity! ?
Being proactive doesn’t just help you but it shows employers and people that you volunteer with just how much you really care. Actions speak louder than words so if you are proactive and on top of the the tasks you’ve been told to do, you really stand out from the rest and it makes you more trustworthy!
In a volunteering setting, being proactive and consistently helpful can set you apart. Taking initiative in various tasks or offering to lead a project not only showcases your skills but also demonstrates your leadership and teamwork abilities. These qualities are often noticed by fellow volunteers and coordinators, potentially leading to valuable connections and recommendations.
Being proactive and helpful is one of the easiest way to using volunteering to build a network. Take on responsibilities, take on available positions, it gives you a chance to work with other professionals. While showing skills you have, you’ll build new skills and build up your network in the process.
The third step to use volunteering to build a network is to connect with other volunteers and staff. Don't be shy or isolated, but make an effort to introduce yourself, chat, and exchange contact information. You never know who you might meet and what opportunities they might have for you. For example, you might meet someone who works in your desired industry, who can give you advice, referrals, or recommendations. Or you might meet someone who has a similar goal or challenge, who can become your accountability partner or collaborator.
Volunteering provides an excellent opportunity to connect with a diverse group of individuals, including other volunteers, nonprofit staff, and community leaders. Engaging in conversations, participating in group activities, and showing interest in others' work and experiences can help in building a rapport. These connections can often translate into professional relationships and networking opportunities.
Networking really does help you connect with the right people! 1. This is your chance to share your passion with others who also love to volunteer. There’s already a similarity there that you can build upon and talk about when you talk to people about why you’re there. 2. People know people! Once you develop a strong connection with a person who inspires you, they may be willing to help you achieve what you want if you are open about what you want.
Connecting with other volunteers and staff is a great avenue for building network. You get to open yourself up to other possibilities of learning and opportunities. Connecting with others helps put you out there, as your new connections will be aware of your abilities and can easily refer or call your name in rooms when the need arises.
The fourth step to use volunteering to build a network is to follow up and keep in touch. Don't let your connections fade away after your volunteering experience, but maintain regular contact and communication. For example, you can send a thank-you note, share relevant resources, invite them to events, or ask for feedback. By following up and keeping in touch, you will show your appreciation, interest, and professionalism, and also strengthen your relationships and trust.
Eons ago, The day before Black Monday (the 1987 stock market crash), I was a Senior Executive in a Fortune 100 company. One week later, I was unemployed, newly married and a baby on the way! Given few hiring opportunities for anyone then, I decided to volunteer in my community - and met many other seasoned executives and professionals, doing the same. While I never did return to corporate work, I did launch my very successful @GetUNstuckNOW Breakthrough coaching and speaking career. And 40+ years later, to this day, many of those I met volunteering then, are still close colleagues, and we still feed each other business opportunities.
Building a professional network through volunteering goes beyond accumulating contacts; it's about nurturing meaningful connections. Don't just connect on LinkedIn; engage and follow up on conversations. Make it a habit to reach out regularly, share updates, or offer assistance. Whether it's providing support or seeking advice, maintaining these relationships with genuine interest and care can lead to lasting professional bonds and mutual growth. Remember, a well-tended network is a powerful asset.
The fifth step to use volunteering to build a network is to leverage your network for your career. Don't be afraid or hesitant to ask for help or support from your connections, but be clear and respectful about your goals and needs. For example, you can ask for introductions, endorsements, testimonials, or opportunities. Or you can offer your help or support in return, creating a mutually beneficial exchange. By leveraging your network for your career, you will increase your chances of finding new or better jobs, clients, or projects.
I've found that offering something of value without the expectation of an immediate "return" is beneficial in the long run. In my case, it's been ideation that has moved the needle but think of the unique skills that you bring to the table.
The sixth and final step to use volunteering to build a network is to keep learning and growing. Don't stop volunteering after you achieve your immediate goal, but continue to seek new and diverse experiences that can challenge and enrich you. For example, you can volunteer for different causes, roles, or organizations, or take on more leadership or mentoring roles. By keeping learning and growing, you will expand your network, skills, and knowledge, and also make a positive impact on the world.