Start giving back to your community. By doing so, you will gain much more in return.
Volunteering is like a free education — you undoubtedly will learn something new about the world — and about yourself. You will experience personal growth and feel a great sense of satisfaction and pride. You will also create valuable networks and references, gain valuable skills, and enhance your resume — all things that will only improve your chances of getting hired.
It does not matter what the cause — whether you are helping serve food at a homeless shelter, working with underprivileged youth, counseling at a burn camp, delivering food to the elderly, building homes, being a big brother or sister, or getting involved with your church fundraiser, you will be helping others, helping yourself and helping your career.
When an interview panel asks you “Have you ever done any volunteer work,” what will you have to say? Will you have something to talk about and be proud of? If not, what does that say about you and your motives?
This holiday season, find a worthy cause and embrace the spirit of volunteerism. There are plenty of great ways you can get involved and make a difference. Your future career as a firefighter is all about helping and giving back, or at least it should be, so now is the time to start!
Also, read this column by Mike Gonzalez about volunteering in the community and learn what you will receive in return.
