Volunteer role applications can vary dramatically in terms of the time and effort it take to apply. Whatever the role, be it one hour a week mentoring young people or a 2 day a week internship, the most important thing is to be passionate about the charity and what they are trying to achieve.
- Make the effort! - Some applications will be very similar to applying for a paid job and should be given the same amount of effort. If you need help with CVs or cover letters then book a volunteering appointment with the Volunteer Coordinator or a CV/cover letter discussion on CareerHub.
- Give them time – Some charities may take longer than paid jobs to get back to you, keep this in mind when you are waiting and always follow up with an email and/or phone call.
- Make speculative applications – If there is a particular charity you are interested in volunteering with but they aren’t advertising any opportunities it is always worth contacting them to see if they have anything available. Try phoning them or sending an emailing explaining your interest in the charity and skills you could offer them.
- Network – Opportunities can appear in all types of places, make the most of every opportunity and network with friends, family and at events.
- Be committed – As a volunteer you do not sign a contract and so can leave at any time, however most positions will ask you to commit to a minimum of 6 – 9 months, especially if working with children or vulnerable adults. Make sure you are willing to make these commitments, it costs money and time to recruit each volunteer so try not to let them down.