Expand your skills through volunteer work and work experience

8 March 2010

In today's work industry there is fierce competition when it comes to getting those dream jobs that everybody wants. With the level interest across many industries, sometimes it is going to take a lot more than a degree to separate you from the pack of other applicants. This is where experience comes into play, especially if you are new to an industry or a recent graduate who is going for their first job.

In fact, work experience can often be a great tool for those who may already be employed and wish to expand their skills for senior management positions in order to earn higher wages.

Expanding your skills and contact base is crucial for successful career development and volunteer work and work experience is ideal, especially in industries where there is high competition for senior positions.

There are many actions you can take to begin developing your career today. First, talk to your manager and ask what exactly would be expected of you in order to reach the level you want. You would be surprised how such a simple action can have such an effect, including alerting your manager to the fact that you WANT to progress to career. By talking to your manager you will be able to recognize where your skills are lacking and build them up either through a postgraduate course or just simple networking skills.

Also, understand the ins and outs of your company. By simply understanding the company and what its long term strategic goals may be you will be able to see where you can make yourself invaluable through your knowledge and skills in those areas that they want to develop. As the more understanding you have about the business, the more you can contribute and the more likely you are to be considered for jobs within the company that have a high level of input or responsibility.

Overall, you need to show how by putting you in a more senior position you will enhance the company's productivity, efficiency and profitability. No matter the industry, an education in topics such as self-marketing, interviewing and negotiating will only help your case.

While work experience and networking works for those who are looking to progress their careers within their own industry, these very same skills can be great for those who are without jobs and looking to enter an industry. Not many things will impress a potential manager more than an applicant who possesses the initiative to build their skills on their own time for no wages, as this will show a strong work ethic and business focus.

Top tips to career development and advancement:

  • Keep your resume and credentials up to date
  • Actively network
  • Volunteer for leadership roles, even optional jobs, always contribute more than you need too
  • Expand your education and skills through courses
  • Be aware of competition
  • Build quality professional relationships by offering help where possible
  • Remain on top of market and industry trends
  • Build on your networking, interviewing and negotiating skills


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