Written by Tricia Barendregt.
Whether you’re a recent grad, a seasoned pro, in transition, or still figuring out what you want to be when you grow up, volunteering is a great way to stay plugged in and active in the professional community.
Need more persuading? Here are our top 5 reasons to volunteer with WCA:
1. Connect and build relationships
Volunteering for WCA provides you with the opportunity to meet other members, make professional contacts and new friends. Like many other members, I have met so many wonderful people through helping coordinate and host WCA events. Volunteering has also given me the opportunity to strengthen my relationship with previous contacts.
2. Become a stronger leader
Volunteering takes you out of your comfort zone and thus expands your perspective. It also provides new challenges, the opportunity to work with frontrunners in the field, and a chance to hone your skills while discovering new talents – all experiences that can help you develop as a successful leader.
3. Make the most of your WCA membership experience
The familiar saying holds true: “You only get out what you put in”. One of the best way to make the most out of your WCA membership experience is by volunteering. You can help shape and grow not only the organization, but also your own time and involvement. If you’re mulling over the idea of joining WCA, volunteering is a great way to get to know the group and its members—plus, you don’t have to be a member to volunteer!
4. Amp up your resume
Volunteering allows you to sharpen and hone your skill set as well as learn new ones. Featuring volunteer work on your resume is beneficial for all job seekers – especially for new grads looking for experience, people who are in career transition or re-entering the workforce. According to a LinkedIn, volunteering is good for your career: 41 percent of LinkedIn hiring managers consider volunteer work equally as valuable as paid work experience when evaluating candidates.
5. Have fun!
There are an endless stream of fun WCA events and projects to help out with. I have been entertained and enlightened by many guest speakers at Careers Over Coffee and WCA Luncheons. I have also found myself cracking up while enjoying good conversation amongst excellent company at committee meetings. We have some smart, funny, and welcoming members!
So how can you get started? Fill out our volunteer form. Our VP of Volunteer Coordination, Samantha Furry will work with you to get a sense of your goals and interests, and pair you with a volunteer opportunity that is right for you. Please email volunteers@wcaustin.org for more information.
“You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.” – Winston Churchill
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