After graduating with a degree in English, Cat Clark worked in a series of temping jobs that did very little to fulfil her ambition of working in the events industry. So, after seeing an advert for volunteers for Oxjam, she applied for a position in the Bath team.
Oxjam is a month-long music festival that runs throughout October. There are hundreds of gigs around the UK all organised by volunteers.
Cat began working as production co-ordinator, booking the bands and venues. "In the four months prior to the event, I recruited, trained and managed a team of around 20 volunteers, working alongside my marketing co-ordinator, fundraising co-ordinator and production co-ordinator," she said.
The following year, in 2010, Cat became the overall event manager, balancing the volunteer role alongside her day job. "As well as developing event and project management skills, Oxjam is a brilliant opportunity to think creatively and to make some great contacts within the local music scene," said Cat. "The events we produced in Bath were a real success, raising several thousand pounds for Oxfam and showing off amazing local talent.
"After working for Oxjam, I applied to an events company for an admin-based job, but when the interviewer noticed my experience, he recommended that I apply for an events role instead.
"I'm now in my third year with the company, and there's no doubt that having Oxjam on my CV helped me get the role. The people in charge of hiring me all agree that my practical experience was more valuable to them than any formal events qualification I could have earned."
Cat's story highlights a number of key lessons about how to use volunteering as a way to break into your chosen career. Here are some of the key points:
Follow your interests: From working in a shop to running a gig, there is a wide range of volunteering opportunities out there. Do your research to find volunteering opportunities that are aligned with your interests, skillset and personal goals.
Volunteering is a two-way relationship: Your time and energy should be repaid with enriching experiences, and the chance to develop transferable skills. Don't be afraid to talk about your personal development goals and to ask for roles and responsibilities that will help you achieve these.
Communicate your achievements: Make the most of volunteering on your CV and in job interviews – be specific about what you achieved and learned along the way, and how the skills you gained are relevant to the job you want.
Source: 3rd October 2012, The Guardian, Nick Bryer (Manager at Oxjam)
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