Working as a volunteer doesn't only give you the opportunity to strengthen a community or protect the natural environment.
It allows you to develop skills and demonstrate your capacity for leadership and initiative, all of which can have positive repercussions for your career.
Don’t believe us? Take a look at what the major law firms, corporations and government departments think about job applicants with volunteer experience.
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Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
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"To be successful in the highly competitve job market it helps to have a 'degree plus'...volunteering is a good example of one way to set yourself apart"
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- Jacqui Rabel, Acting Director, Victoria State Office
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Baker & McKenzie
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"Graduate positions at major law firms have become increasingly competitive which makes it very difficult to choose the right candidate based purely on university marks, degrees and awards.
"We have found that candidates who have undertaken volunteer work are more likely to possess strong team and organisational skills, a pro-active attitude, and a substantial amount of passion and commitment.
"In an environment like ours, such competencies are absolutely critical."
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- Luke Bazaglo, Human Resources Consultant
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BHP Billiton
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"When we look at a resume we look for a variety of experiences and
activities, not just someone who goes to school or goes to uni and gets good marks.
"We look for evidence of leadership, of involvement and of being able to get things done.
"A great indicator of these attributes is where some one has initiated a charitable project or has done voluntary work in their own time - it demonstrates drive, commitment and initiative - all things we value".
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- Louise Doyle, Vice President of Human Resources
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The Executive Connection
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"Everybody can get an education today and therefore it's easy to achieve.
"What we're looking for is to have people who have shown that they are prepared to work for things, not just receive."
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- Mike O'Neil, Chief Executive Officer
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Wesfarmers
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"I am constantly struck by the extraordinary number of Australians who willingly apply their time and skills towards volunteer work. Apart from sustaining and enriching our society, volunteers gain the personal benefit of knowing their efforts make a difference and increase their sense of community."
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- Michael Chaney, CEO and Chairman of the Business Council of Australia's employment and participation taskforce.
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