As a student we understand that you’re always looking for ways to stand out in a competitive job market. While academic achievements and work experience are key, another powerful way to boost your employability is through volunteering. This year's National Careers Week is the perfect time to explore how King’s Volunteering can help you to enhance your career prospects and develop the skills employers are looking for. Below are 6 reasons why giving back can also help you get ahead with your future career. 

1. Gain Valuable Work Experience 

Many graduate jobs require previous experience, but it can be difficult to gain this without already being employed. Volunteering bridges this gap by giving you hands-on experience in a variety of roles and sectors. Whether you’re interested in marketing, event management, research, or social impact, volunteering provides opportunities to apply and develop your skills in real-world settings. 

2. Develop Key Employability Skills 

Employers are looking for candidates with transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership. Volunteering helps you cultivate these skills in meaningful ways. For example: 

• Organising a community event builds project management and teamwork skills. 

• Mentoring young people strengthens leadership and communication abilities. 

• Supporting a charity’s online presence enhances digital marketing expertise. 

 
Luisa, International Relations student and King’s Volunteering Ambassador, has used volunteering to gain career-relevant skills and experiences. 

"Through volunteering with Climate Ed, FoodCycle, and King's Language Centre I have greatly strengthened my CV and developed countless skills that will be useful in my career and future job applications. Teaching as a Climate Ed workshop facilitator has given me insight into a career in teaching, whilst developing my public speaking skills. Cooking a meal with a team of strangers at FoodCycle has greatly strengthened my teamwork skills and, as a speaking practice volunteer, I have been able to work on translation and interpreting skills, important for any career in an international field."

Luisa’s experience shows how volunteering can offer both industry-specific experience and transferable skills that boost employability. 

3. Expand Your Professional Network 

Your network can be one of your greatest career assets, and volunteering connects you with professionals, mentors, and like-minded peers. Many volunteers find job opportunities through the connections they make, whether that’s through charity partners or fellow volunteers. The relationships you build while giving back can open unexpected doors in your career. 

4. Stand Out to Employers 

A CV filled with academic achievements is great, but what makes you different from other graduates? Volunteering sets you apart by demonstrating your commitment to making a positive impact. It also showcases qualities like initiative, adaptability, and resilience—traits that employers value highly. 

 
Amy, International Development student and King’s Volunteering Ambassador, shares how volunteering helps her stand out from the crowd. 

"Volunteering with King’s Climate and Sustainability orchestrating focus groups gave me hands-on experience with qualitative research - something which informs my own degree and will make me stand out for the crowd when applying to other research opportunities. Volunteering goes beyond the role itself, it can give you crucial skills that can be used on job applications and in interviews to give you the edge over everyone else!"

5. Explore Career Paths and Discover Your Passion 

If you’re unsure about your career direction, volunteering allows you to test different industries and roles. Many students discover their passion for a particular sector through volunteering, leading them to pursue related careers. It’s a great way to refine your career goals while making a difference. 

6. Improve Your Wellbeing and Confidence 

Beyond employability, volunteering has many potential personal benefits, including improved wellbeing and confidence. Giving your time to a cause you care about can be fulfilling, helping to reduce stress and increase your sense of purpose. Confidence gained from new experiences and responsibilities can also help you feel more prepared for job interviews and workplace challenges. 

Get Involved with King’s Volunteering 

At King’s, we make it easy for you to find the right volunteering opportunity. Through King’s Volunteering, you can explore a range of roles that align with your skills, interests, and career aspirations. Whether you have limited time to volunteer or want to take on a bigger project, there’s something for everyone. 

Start your volunteering journey today and take the first step towards a more employable, skilled, and confident you. Visit the King’s Volunteering platform to find opportunities that match your goals.