Doors may open for career opportunities

Dubai: Doing volunteer work doesn't just give you a personal sense of accomplishment. It also provides you an opportunity to enhance your CV while building your network and professional brand.

Studies show that companies look beyond the educational attainment and skills of a job applicant. By volunteering their time, people demonstrate that they are willing to work for the betterment of others. Volunteering is also a great way to showcase one's leadership abilities and learn new skills.

"Regional employers are looking at much more than education and technical skills when making a hiring decision," notes Lama Ataya, chief marketing officer of Bayt.com. "Volunteering for worthwhile causes showcases the kind of leadership, energy, pro-activeness, initiative and drive that employers are increasingly looking for in potential candidates."

Many companies in the region are now actively involved in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities. Ataya says that clearly shows that most employers are "extremely attuned to the importance of contributing to society" and focus on those who do their bit for society.

Competitive edge

"The contacts you will make and the skills you will hone...volunteering work should also help give you that extra added competitive edge you need to enter the workforce or effect a career change," she adds.

In the US, millions of residents are volunteering their time.

According to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, about 62.8 million people volunteered through or for an organisation at least once between September 2009 and September 2010.

Considering the number of organisations doing charity activities in the UAE, there are plenty of opportunities for volunteering.

The options can include helping collect money or clothes, control the crowd or hand out food at a community event. You can also spend your time with special needs children or do some housekeeping work at a charity facility.

"[There are] a number of very well managed local, regional and international charitable organisations based here who are always looking for extra helping hands at every career level," says Ataya.

"An increasing number of corporations also welcome interns on a volunteer basis especially at the entry level and/or to assist with CSR programmes and special events, and this kind of volunteer work is also great to have on your CV as it shows commitment and dedication to your career and gives you that extra competitive edge you may need to enter or re-enter the workforce or engineer a change in careers."

Since employers are looking for candidates who are driven, Ataya suggests that you should aim to apply the same level of energy when volunteering.

Employers seek people with motivation

Employers are looking for candidates who are driven, motivated and excel at what they set out to do. So, when you choose to offer your time to volunteer, it is vital that you show your enthusiasm and commitment.

Regardless of which social cause you choose to assist, make sure you aim to apply the same level of energy initiative, enthusiasm and professionalism. "The employer will be interested in knowing what you learned, achieved and contributed during this experience," says Lama Ataya of Bayt.com.