VOLUNTEERING WHILE UNEMPLOYED

Attitudes towards volunteering while job searching vary; for some, it is difficult to consider working for 'nothing' when concerns about finances are forefront. Others may see the opportunity as a means of giving back to community while at the same time networking.

When considering whether or not to volunteer, it is important to weigh the pros and cons; the benefits and the disadvantages.

Some of the disadvantages include unpaid work and may be viewed as time consuming in that it takes away from job search time.

Clearly, however, the pros outweigh the cons and it is important to remember that there is a level of flexibility involved in that when employment is secured, the volunteer commitment will need to be re-evaluated.

For those of you who decide to volunteer it is important to be clear with the organization or charity that you are actively job searching so that they are prepared for when you find employment.

Volunteering, while you are unemployed, is a great tool to move you closer to the light at the end of the job search tunnel!

                                                                                  -Sunny + Sassy