For my CV: Volunteering for a charity, reputation important?
Discussion
Hello PH.
Some of you may remember I was looking to gain new competencies in order to increase my odds of getting a grad job.
The good news is that I have since worked elsewhere (not a grad role) but I am now seeking pastures new.
My query is this:
Is it worth volunteering at a charity organisation with shall we say, a reputation for being comprised of or supported by spongers and the work-shy?
I do not wish to create the wrong impression and have my CV or application form filed in the bin in future job applications because of this.
Note that I am not necessarily saying that the organisation I have in mind is indeed made up of or supported by people with these characteristics.
Would you recommend I just volunteer for a "safe" charity just to make sure I don't have an unsightly gap on my CV, although due to the roles offered, I am unlikely to be able to learn new competencies?
Thanks,
AC.
Some of you may remember I was looking to gain new competencies in order to increase my odds of getting a grad job.
The good news is that I have since worked elsewhere (not a grad role) but I am now seeking pastures new.
My query is this:
Is it worth volunteering at a charity organisation with shall we say, a reputation for being comprised of or supported by spongers and the work-shy?
I do not wish to create the wrong impression and have my CV or application form filed in the bin in future job applications because of this.
Note that I am not necessarily saying that the organisation I have in mind is indeed made up of or supported by people with these characteristics.
Would you recommend I just volunteer for a "safe" charity just to make sure I don't have an unsightly gap on my CV, although due to the roles offered, I am unlikely to be able to learn new competencies?
Thanks,
AC.
This may be approaching the issue the wrong way. If you have some spare time and feel passionate about helping others regardless of the rewards, then it may be best to choose an organisation that either matches your own values/interests or one that is in critical need of support. The by-product is an entry on your CV that you will then be passionate about if asked during interview. If you approach the issue about how good it looks on your CV, then that may come across as such and may have a negative impact. Good luck!
rog007 said:
This may be approaching the issue the wrong way. If you have some spare time and feel passionate about helping others regardless of the rewards, then it may be best to choose an organisation that either matches your own values/interests or one that is in critical need of support. The by-product is an entry on your CV that you will then be passionate about if asked during interview. If you approach the issue about how good it looks on your CV, then that may come across as such and may have a negative impact. Good luck!
Agreed. I hear there are lots of people who do this just to improve their CV although it's not a terrible thing for the charities concerned. 
Gassing Station | Jobs & Employment Matters | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff