What do you do if you want practical experience in a specific field before changing careers?

Considering a career change can be both exciting and daunting. You might find yourself wanting to transition into a new industry but feel hesitant due to a lack of practical experience. Volunteering is an often overlooked strategy that can provide valuable hands-on experience in your desired field. It's a way to build skills, make connections, and test the waters of a new profession without the commitment of a full-time job. By volunteering, you can also demonstrate your passion and commitment to potential employers, making you a more attractive candidate when you're ready to make the leap.

1 Volunteer Work

Volunteering in your desired field is a fantastic way to gain practical experience. Look for organizations or projects that align with your career interests and offer the opportunity to develop relevant skills. This can include non-profits, community events, or even online platforms that seek volunteers for various tasks. By contributing your time and energy, you not only learn about the day-to-day realities of the profession but also demonstrate a proactive approach to potential employers. Remember, volunteering doesn't have to be a full-time commitment; even a few hours a week can provide significant learning opportunities.

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Brenda Menine

Humanitarian Action | Direitos Humanos, Diversidade e Voluntariado - Mestra em comunicação (UFRGS), especialista em comunicação corporativa (ESPM) e relações-públicas (PUCRS)
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Practical Experience: Volunteering allows you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Skill Development: Volunteering opportunities often align with your career interests, allowing you to develop relevant skills sought after by employers. Industry Insights: You'll gain a deeper understanding of the day-to-day realities of your desired field. Proactive Demonstration: Volunteering showcases your initiative and commitment to your career path to potential employers. Flexible Time Commitment: Volunteering opportunities can be found for various time commitments, allowing you to tailor participation to your schedule.

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2 Networking Value

Networking is an invaluable aspect of volunteering. While gaining experience, you'll meet professionals who can offer insights and advice about the industry. These connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, references, or even job offers. Attend events, join discussions, and be open about your career aspirations. The relationships you build while volunteering can be just as important as the skills you acquire, as they provide a support system and can help open doors in your new career path.

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Debbie Haski-Leventhal

Purpose Leader | Inspirational speaker | Best-selling author | Awarded Professor of CSR | TED and public speaker
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Volunteering is an outstanding way of meeting new people and expanding your network. By weaving meaningful connections with peer volunteers, service recipients, and others, you can increase your likelihood of hearing about new roles or getting asked to do paid work within or outside the volunteer organisation.

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3 Skill Enhancement

Volunteering allows you to enhance existing skills and develop new ones. You may be tasked with responsibilities that challenge you and push you out of your comfort zone. This is a chance to showcase your adaptability and eagerness to learn. Be open to feedback and use it as a stepping stone to improve. The skills you gain through volunteering can be highlighted on your resume, making you a more competitive candidate when applying for jobs in your new field.

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4 Real-World Exposure

One of the most significant advantages of volunteering is gaining real-world exposure to your field of interest. You'll get a sense of the industry culture, jargon, and the practical challenges professionals face. This experience can be eye-opening and either reaffirm your desire to switch careers or help you realize it may not be the right fit. Either way, you'll come away with a better understanding of the field and whether it aligns with your career goals.

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5 Strategic Volunteering

To make the most of your volunteering experience, choose roles strategically. Aim for positions that will give you relevant experience and look impressive on a resume. If possible, take on leadership roles or projects that will allow you to showcase your initiative and problem-solving skills. Treat your volunteer work as seriously as a paid position; the professionalism and dedication you display can make a lasting impression on those who might be instrumental in your career change.

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6 Reflect & Pivot

Lastly, volunteering provides an opportunity to reflect on your career path and pivot if necessary. If you find that the field isn't what you expected, you can adjust your course without the repercussions that might come from leaving a paid position. Use this time to assess what you enjoy and where your strengths lie, then tailor your career change strategy accordingly. Volunteering can be a low-risk way to explore new possibilities and refine your professional direction.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if you want practical experience in a specific field before changing careers?

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1 Volunteer Work

2 Networking Value

3 Skill Enhancement

4 Real-World Exposure

5 Strategic Volunteering

6 Reflect & Pivot

7 Here’s what else to consider

Volunteering

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What do you do if you want practical experience in a specific field before changing careers?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Volunteer Work

2 Networking Value

3 Skill Enhancement

4 Real-World Exposure

5 Strategic Volunteering

6 Reflect & Pivot

7 Here’s what else to consider

Volunteering

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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