Volunteering
Unlocking career opportunities:
The power of volunteering In today’s competitive job market, job seekers are constantly searching for ways to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression on potential employers. One often-overlooked strategy that can make a significant difference in your job search is volunteering.
BY ELIZABETH MORRIS-CORROCHANO
There are many multifaceted benefits of volunteering as a potent strategy for job seekers in the Dutch context, as volunteering serves as a bridge to building a robust local network, fostering personal skill development, and maintaining active engagement during the job hunt. Building a robust local network
In the Netherlands, as in many other countries, the saying “it’s not what you know, but who you know” holds a great deal of truth when it comes to securing job opportunities. Volunteering offers a unique avenue to expand your network and connect with professionals in your field of interest. By engaging in volunteer work, you have the chance to meet like-minded individuals who are passionate about the same causes or industries. Imagine you are a recent graduate looking for your first job in marketing. Volunteering for a local non-profit organisation’s marketing team can introduce you to experienced professionals in the field. These connections can offer insights into industry trends, provide mentorship, and even tip you off about job openings that may not be advertised elsewhere. Furthermore, building a strong local network through volunteering can help you gain a better understanding of the Dutch job market and its unique dynamics. It allows you to tap into the wisdom of those who have successfully navigated the Dutch employment landscape, helping you make informed decisions about your career path.
PHOTO: DESOLA LANRE OLOGUN
Fostering personal skill development
32 | ACCESS | ISSUE 2 - 2023
Volunteering is not just about giving your time, it’s also an opportunity to acquire and hone valuable skills that are transferable to your professional life. Dutch employers highly value individuals with a diverse skill set and a proactive approach to selfimprovement. Volunteering can help you develop these qualities in several ways by both contributing skills you already have or in developing new ones.