As you know when you are doing your job search, you always come across jobs that say 6months, 12months , 1 year etc.. of experience, and you think to yourself "SERIOUSLY! I can do this job with my eyes closed". Although, you feel you are qualified employers are looking for people who have done a similar job I will I agree with you, because I find myself in the same delima of working in my field, I may have all the education it takes and class experience, but I don't have field experience, so what does that mean for me? I NEED TO GAIN EXPERIENCE... Here's How.
For the most part many of you are still in High School or entering college or just graduating and you are looking for that summer job to help you save for Senior activities or money for books. Regardless of where you are you all can benefit from the proper experience to get your foot in the door. Many of you may not like what I have to suggest next, but remember to get to where you want to be you have to start from the bottom and sometimes the bottom means working without pay, Yes! I mean volunteering/internships. Though you may not be fond of offering your time and labor for free but it is one of the best ways to gain the necessary experience you need to join the workforce.
By volunteering or interning in the field you are trying to enter or gaining experience in office, mechanical, technical areas you increase you chances of employment, not to mention some of you may the time as a graduation requirement. Some people don't realize that your volunteer/internship can be placed on their resume, so don't think this is a waist of time.
If you are looking into volunteering or interning here are some sites I suggest:
http://www.volunteermatch.org/
http://www.serve.gov/
Don't forget to check your local libraries,civic centers, and other businesses you may be interested in ask if they offer internships or volunteer opportunities. I know most people volunteer at church which is very good I for one promote giving your time to God, but you also want to think outside the box, employers are always looking at resumes that indicate "I volunteer with my church youth group", but what sets you apart from the rest? if you like animals or looking to be in marine biology volunteer at the zoo, animal shelter, or sea aquarium. If you want to own your own business someday find out some local business that offer internships. Don't settle for what is obviously in front of you create your opportunities. Start the networking process early don't wait until the last minute remember people's names/numbers and make sure they know who you are, you never know when you need to make a reference or a connection to a job.
Trust me when I say, once you start volunteering you won't want to stop I idea of helping others is a good feeling, learning all you can about different field areas is worth it when you graduate college and resume is pact with great work experience and you land the job with the great salary while your friends who chose not to volunteer or consider an internship are struggling to even get an interview, "Not a good place to be in".
Well Ladies the choice is yours I have provided you with my insight now the ball is in your court. Have fun deciding where you want to volunteer, don't forget to think outside of the box.
Whats your flavor on volunteering/interning?
LADY B
