CPO Media is home to many volunteers helping out with many different things – from working on our own VOXX magazine to aiding others learn computer basics through UK Online. There are several benefits that can be gained from taking up a volunteer role.

Boost job opportunities

Taking up a volunteer role enables you to: improve your CV, gain valuable references from staff at the organisation and allows job applications to stand out from the rest. Seeing that an applicant is an active volunteer tends to impress employers, showing the persons commitment, determination and interests. According to a survey carried out by TimeBank through Reed Executive, among 200 of the UK’s leading businesses, 73% of employers would recruit a candidate who has volunteering experience over someone who hasn’t.

Gaining experience

If you know exactly what job you’re after, volunteering in a similar environment is a great way to gain the relevant experience. You can get a feel for the work involved and find out more about all aspects of the job. It could even be a good opportunity to build a portfolio to show future employers what you have been doing previously.

Receiving advice and guidance

If you are volunteering in an area that you would want to work in, you are in a perfect position to seek advice from people who already do those jobs as a living. A lot of places will give you advice and guidance to set you on the right track for your goals. It’s also a great way to make contacts in that field, which never hurts your prospects.

Gaining and developing skills and knowledge

No matter what volunteer role you decide to take up, there will be a chance to learn and develop your skills and knowledge. This could be anything from learning how to edit photographs to developing your communication skills. You will also be able to find out more about your own strengths and weaknesses and then be able to work on improving these, as well as building your overall confidence throughout.

Meeting and helping new people

A prime opportunity to meet a variety of new people, volunteering brings together a diverse range of people from different backgrounds and cultures. This is a great way to develop your interpersonal skills and learn about people from all walks of life. Being able to help and work with these people is a good way to get prepared for interacting with others in a future job role.

These are just a few examples of what you could gain from volunteering.
If you’re interested in taking up a volunteering role at CPO Media, get in contact with us and we can give you more information.