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There is a rumor going around that this devastating economy of our is finally on the way to recovery. As much as I want to believe this, the fact remains that many of us are still struggling to find work after receiving the hard knocks blow of the almighty layoff. This new word that we are facing can feel like an uphill battle that can make you want to just stop looking for work altogether. And if this is you, then my suggestion to you is that you do just that. 

Crazy! You say. Why should I stop looking for work? You ask. Because sometimes, you need to let the work find you. And there is no better way to do this than by volunteering. Most organizations that run on volunteering start with an application process and also include an interview.  It can also look outstanding on your resume if you are accepted and can also give you face-to-face practice for when a potential employer calls you for the real thing. 

 

The point is, that if you are ever faced with "down time" then you’re going to need something to fill up the gap. Employers today want to see that you have done things with your life and if the paying jobs aren’t available right now, then volunteer work can be a beautiful substitute. Many wonderful organizations just can not afford professional photographers, designers, or web developers but are no less in need of them. Should you decide to donate a logo or a photo session, or set up a word press blog, you will not only be helping someone out, but you will also be helping yourself because you will be connecting yourself with people. Do enough volunteer work and pretty soon the people who are able to pay you will find you. 

 

I have done it myself and I can tell you that it can be quite the gratifying experience. It keeps my skills sharp, and helps me add to my portfolio. And almost always I will walk away with positive reviews and recommendations.

 

But if you are new to the volunteer circuit, then you’re going to need a little advice. So here is what I have learned from working with non-profit organizations:

 

  * Be sure to outline your guidelines for the project in detail in an email or on paper and go over them with your contact person from the organization. A lot of non-profit organizations don’t know much about the world of photography, web, or graphic design and are often too busy trying to find funding to learn what they need to know. The more information you can give them in the beginning, the smoother the project will go.

 

  * Don’t be afraid to set limitations. Time lines and deadlines can often get away from people. So much goes on when trying to run a non-profit that many times organizers will forget to eat unless someone bugs them about it. But just because you are not getting paid and you are "there to help" doesn’t mean that your time is any less valuable. More often than not, your organizer will be very grateful to you for pushing them to make decisions or to make deadlines, because without the nudge, things may never get done. 

 

  * Be fair to them and to yourself. Organizers realize and understand just how awesome you are that you are agreeing to work with them. If you aren’t happy about something, they will want to know about it. Be sure to tell them when things aren’t going as discussed, but be sure to be fair about it. It is almost certain that your organizer will frustrate you at some point, but keep in mind that most organizers are under more stress then you could ever imagine. If a problem does occur, take a moment to calm down before you approach them with your concerns. The more you can keep your head and wits about you, the more they will too.

 

  *  Be sure to ask up front for permission to put any work done during the project in your portfolio or on your resume. Some organizations deal with sensitive topics and occasionally you will find an organizer that is adamant about having their material displayed. Should this occur, then respect their wishes but ask if they would be open to writing a letter of recommendation, or give a referral as a replacement. Don’t forget that although this is a non-paid job, something good should come of it for all of your work. Recommendations and referrals can be worth a lot when looking for a more permanent employment solution.

 

  *  Be on the look out for organizations that will give you flexibility and freedom to try new things. Sometimes non-profit organizations can obtain government grants that will allow them to send people to classes or conferences in order to further their business. This can be a great way to grow into a new skill without having to pay for it. Make sure, however, that if they are kind enough to sponsor you for some additional education, that you discuss what their expectations may be when the class concludes. Know just how much they wish you to share, and how much they wish you to perform.

 

  * Don’t be a jerk. Keep in mind that this is first and foremost a volunteer position. Don’t expect people to fall all over you with compliments and love for being so generous. Sometimes it will happen, but if you go looking for it (in replace of payment) then you are going to end up disappointed and possibly bitter. Look for different things to take away from the experience such as practice, giving of self, making someone else happy, and personal growth. Do it for your own good as much as theirs but be ready to do your own prop giving and just remember, what goes around comes back around eventually.

 

Volunteering can be a wonderful way of getting back on the work horse after someone has knocked you from it. It will give you a sense of purpose and meaning in a senseless situation. And you never know what it may lead to, you just may find the job of your dreams.