How volunteering helps your future career?!

Have you ever thought about volunteering abroad? Well, this is not only an incredible way to see the world, It’s also a really good way to boost your future! With this text I will tell you all about how volunteering internationally can make a significant difference in your career.

The first way volunteering can help you boost your future is by assisting you with  developing valuable skills. When you volunteer internationally, you’re stepping into new and sometimes challenging environments that help you build essential skills like:

• Cross-Cultural Communication: During your time volunteering you will  be interacting with people from different cultures, and in some cases  in languages you don’t speak fluently. This type of experience gives you the chance to become a better communicator, which is an important  asset to have in most careers.

 

• Problem-Solving and Adaptability: when you travel things don’t always go as planned, especially in a foreign country. This will give you a chance to  learn to adapt quickly and come up with creative solutions, a trait that employers highly value.
• Teamwork and Leadership: Whether you’re collaborating with other volunteers or working alongside local communities, this type of experience will allow you to learn to work in a team and develop leadership skills. 

 

Another advantage that this type of opportunity gives you is the chance to develop a Global Perspective. Volunteering abroad gives you a deeper understanding of global issues, such as education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. This type of  awareness can be very important in some industries, and having firsthand experience will make you stand out to employers who value a broad, informed perspective.

One of the most obvious benefits is the positive impact that has on your CV. Including international volunteering on your CV can make it really stand out. It shows that you’re proactive, adaptable, and willing to take on challenges. Plus, it highlights your commitment to making a positive impact, which is something employers are looking for in today’s socially conscious world.

Volunteering internationally allows you to build and diversify your network. One of the great things about volunteering abroad is the people you meet along the way. You’ll connect with locals, fellow volunteers, and professionals from different sectors and backgrounds. 

 

On the other hand, employers are always impressed by candidates who show genuine passion and commitment. Volunteering internationally demonstrates that you’re dedicated to making a difference and willing to go the extra mile. This can be especially advantageous if you’re pursuing a career in fields like social work, education, or environmental science, where passion for the cause is key.

And finally, one of the most important things is that volunteering internationally can help you boost your self confidence. Living and working in a different country can be challenging, but it also builds your confidence. You’ll become more resilient and independent, qualities that are crucial for professional success. The confidence you gain from navigating new situations will help you take on future challenges in your career with ease.

 

 

In sum, volunteering internationally offers you more than the chance to explore new places, as you can use it as a tool to advance your career. Engaging in international volunteer work gives you the chance to develop  important  skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, and cross-cultural communication that can benefit you long term, when entering the workforce. Additionally, it provides a unique opportunity to gain a broader, global perspective, that will help you approach challenges with creativity and cultural sensitivity. These experiences not only enrich your CV but also make you stand out to employers by highlighting your ability to adapt to diverse environments.

Beyond the skills you gain, international volunteering will help you expand your professional network and will help you Illustrate your passion and commitment to causes that matter. Working alongside people from different backgrounds and sectors allows you to form valuable connections that can lead to future career opportunities. 

 

Sara Martins - International Volunteer Program Coordinator: Lisbon