Make a Resume Stand out With Volunteering
Improve CV Through International Volunteering
Sep 23, 2009
Getting a job fresh out of University has never been harder. The global recession has hit, and fewer and fewer companies are willing to take the risk of hiring inexperienced graduates. Alongside this, the growing numbers of college students graduating with good degrees, makes competition cut-throat.
In this environment, what is the best way to make a resume stand out?
Gaining the Best International Experience
One way to spice up a resume is to volunteer internationally. It is a fantastic way to get hands on experience working in a desired field, to learn invaluable skills for working in a global environment (vital in today’s business world, dominated by multinational companies), and to have a once in a life time experience.
Volunteering abroad is a big decision, and one that should never be taken lightly. Before heading off to the jungle, the desert, or a war torn zone, doing a lot of research is essential.
The first thing to decide is what to do. For graduates aiming to work for a bank, saving Orangutans will make a resume interesting, but not exactly relevant. Instead, look for a volunteer position at a micro-finance organization, or volunteer to act as an accountant for a small NGO. Likewise, potential marine biologists should think carefully before signing up to teach IT skills in a Nepalese monastery.
The next decision is where? Working in Malawi might be some people’s dream, but for people terrified of snakes, spiders and malaria, somewhere a little more developed might be a better choice. Similarly, for people who can’t stand high temperatures, India might not be appropriate, but Nepal might be just perfect.
Perhaps the most important step is researching any potential organization. Don’t be afraid to email them and ask for full details of their work, and contact details of former volunteers – if they are unwilling to provide this, ask why?
How Much Does International Volunteering Cost?
Spicing up a resume through international volunteering is rarely cheap, but it does not need to break the bank either. Short-term volunteer placements via a third party company, can cost anywhere between $1000 and $4000.
Volunteering independently can be substantially cheaper, and many organizations are willing to provide free food and accommodation in return for free services. Volunteers will need to pay for flights, visas and spending money. Depending on the length of stay and the country, this may potentially be a significant amount of money, or it can be bargain basement.
Either way, it is money well spent: volunteering abroad is an investment in the future.
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