Is finding volunteer work easier then finding a normal job?

[jack0194]

Hi,

So this is my first time looking at doing volunteer work. I'm mainly looking at doing it because I've done no work for almost 2 years due to health reasons and need to do something to help get back into it. My question is, when I apply for these volunteer roles is it similar to applying for normal jobs where I need to apply for lots of different jobs just to get a job? Or should I only need to apply for 1-2 roles just to get something?

I'm mainly looking for admin/customer service roles but I'm open to anything.

Thanks.

[Croix]

Dear Jack0194~

Welcome back, it has been a while and I hope the years have been kind to you.

Getting a volunteering position is an excellent idea and in most areas position are available. They may not be in admin or customer device but provided they interest you are still worthwhile. They lend structure and accomplishment to life and are often stepping stones to paid jobs.

My own technique has been to ring up or go in person first and talk to a manager and then follow wiht  a letter if asked. This also gives me an idea if the people there are pleasant to work with -which is probably more important than the nature of the tasks.

Positions tend to be limited by your imagination, from museums to the RSPA to sorting books in a thrift shop to ... well you get the idea

Good luck

Croix

[sbella02]

Hey Jack, thank you so much for reaching out and welcome back to the forums.

Volunteering would definitely be a gentle transition back into work life - I agree with everything Croix has already said about volunteer roles being good stepping stones. It's generally a similar process to applying for a paid role, particularly in terms of various documentation that you need to supply in order to be eligible.

I would say that your personality and interests will play a far greater role in an interview for a volunteer position than your experience will. So, as long as you're staying authentic to yourself and have a genuine interest in the roles that you're searching and applying for, you'll have an easier time landing volunteer work. 

If you've got any specific organisations in mind that you'd like to work with, you could have a look on their websites to see if they've got any roles that they're advertising for, or reach out to them either in person or online to ask. Check out places like Seek and Linkedin as well, as they've always got updated roles across a wide range of industries. 

I wish you well in your search, let us know how you go!

SB