While it may be nerve-racking to think of setting off on an overseas journey, volunteering abroad can bring a great deal of benefits for anyone. In a competitive atmosphere of smart, capable professionals, the job market is extremely competitive at the moment and it is important for each individual to create a strong application.
By volunteering abroad, you will not only set yourself apart from your peers when it comes to future job applications, but also learn valuable skills that you will remember for a lifetime. Here are three of the top benefits of volunteering abroad for professionals:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/frontierofficial/7650927294/
Cultural awareness
By volunteering abroad, you will be able to experience life in another country as if you were a local. With new traditions, foods and customs, volunteering abroad will give you the chance to learn more about global issues by experiencing them first hand. You will also be able to think critically about how certain problems can be addressed and develop an in-depth knowledge of a completely different lifestyle to your own. These sorts of experiences can help you to develop a sense of cultural consciousness and sensitivity. In an increasingly global job market, these two traits are fast becoming necessities.
Language skills
Because there are volunteer programs available in every country around the world, you will be able to develop a variety of language skills while they are away. Often, volunteering abroad will take place in developing countries where you may not speak the local language, and so the placement will require you to pick up some new skills. Language skills are often sought by employers and will improve your chance of landing your ideal job when you return.
Finding a path
Going abroad can help you to think clearly about their future. You will be able to make informed choices about which professional direction to take when you return. As well as these professional benefits, volunteering abroad can help you to learn more about yourself in a personal sense. You can expect to develop greater self-confidnce and assertiveness, which will stand you in good stead at work and empower you to make good career choices for the future.
img source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/frontierofficial/7650920806/
There are many ways in which you can get involved with professional volunteering placements overseas, including through companies such as Projects Abroad. For more information about professional volunteering with Projects Abroad, please visit this page.
disclosure: Thanks to A. Summers for providing this guest post!
I'm Elizabeth, a 40-something Michigan wife and mother of three. I created Table for Five in 2005 as a way to connect with other Moms, and I've been blogging ever since. Please click the About tab at the top of the page to read more about me and my family! email: table4five@gmail.com
Great post! Thanks for the tips and valuable information you have shared here. Keep it up!
Such an inspirational article! I always used to do community work during my student years, I have got a lot of great experiences from the third world!
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I think it would be a nice experience. I sure hope one day I get to try it.
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