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Being unemployed doesn’t mean some extra vacation time for you. Treating the job search as a full-time role is an essential part of making it fast and successful. Volunteering at a local nonprofit helps your chances at quickly finding a new position.

If you still aren’t convinced, here are a few reasons why this approach bodes well whenever you are looking for a position. Take heed of this advice and soon you will be in the job of your dreams.

The Data Supports the Benefits of Volunteering

A study from the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal volunteering advocacy agency, illustrates the benefits of volunteering when unemployed. After analyzing over 70,000 unemployed Americans from 2002 to 2012, they discovered volunteers enjoyed a 27 percent higher chance of finding a job. But why is volunteering attractive to potential employers?

The study’s authors noted that volunteers “demonstrate higher levels of capacity, potentially making the volunteer more attractive to and productive for employers.” In short, it is a great way to learn new skills. Adding a few contacts to your professional network never hurts, either.

Another study showed similar results. The Center for Economic and Policy Research found that unemployed workers volunteering between 20 and 99 hours in a year stood a seven percent greater chance at finding employment by the end of that year.

A Valid Option for the Long-Term Unemployed?

If you are currently suffering from long-term unemployment, volunteering offers you a great opportunity to learn new skills and network with potential new employers. Keeping your social networking efforts active remains an important factor in any successful job search. Additionally, helping out for a good cause also simply makes you feel better about yourself.

Employers want to hire workers who stay motivated, no matter the situation. Spending time helping others on a volunteer basis is definitely attractive to organizations of all stripes. You may also learn of a permanent opportunity with one of the nonprofits where you worked.

Ultimately, volunteering makes you feel more needed and productive; providing an essential boost to your mood during any difficult job hunt. The benefits are numerous. The data reveals volunteers are more successful job searchers. So find a local opportunity with a nonprofit and pitch in!

If you need additional insights on looking for a new job, talk to the knowledgeable recruiters at PrideStaff Houston. As one of the top general staffing agencies in the Southwest, we know the companies looking for talent like yourself. Connect with us today!