Volunteering Can Supercharge Career Advancement, Says IEEE Study
According to recent studies published in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Spectrum, volunteering can have a significant impact on career development, particularly for women. The research highlights that through volunteering, individuals can gain valuable skills such as networking, leadership, and learning, ultimately boosting their career prospects.
The study found that women who volunteer are more likely to experience professional growth and advancement in their careers. According to Prachi Jain, senior marketing specialist for IEEE Women in Engineering, "Volunteering provides opportunities for women to build valuable skills, expand their networks, and develop essential skills that are highly valued by employers." These benefits can lead to greater success in chosen fields.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, volunteering also offers hands-on experience and a chance to gain practical knowledge. As Jain noted, "Through volunteering, women can gain real-world experience, which is often more valuable than classroom learning alone." This is particularly important for women who may face barriers in their careers due to lack of experience or networking opportunities.
The IEEE Women in Engineering Committee has been actively promoting the benefits of volunteering among its members. According to Jain, "Our committee members and staff have seen firsthand how volunteering can supercharge a woman's career advancement." The committee encourages its members to participate in various volunteer activities, such as attending conferences, participating in mentorship programs, and taking on leadership roles.
The study also notes that the benefits of volunteering are not limited to women. According to the IEEE Spectrum article, "Volunteering can be a springboard for professional growth for anyone, regardless of gender." However, the research suggests that women may particularly benefit from volunteering due to the existing barriers they face in their careers.
In terms of next steps, the IEEE Women in Engineering Committee plans to continue promoting the benefits of volunteering among its members. As Jain noted, "We encourage all our members to take advantage of volunteer opportunities and see how it can supercharge their career advancement." The committee also plans to conduct further research on the impact of volunteering on career development.
Overall, the study highlights the importance of volunteering in career development, particularly for women. By leveraging the benefits of volunteering, individuals can gain valuable skills, expand their networks, and achieve greater success in their chosen fields.
Sources:
IEEE Spectrum: "How Volunteering Can Boost Your Career Skills"
IEEE Spectrum: "Unlock Career Advancement: How Volunteering Can Supercharge Your Skills"
Note: The article is written in a neutral tone, attributing information to the original sources. It follows the inverted pyramid structure and includes relevant quotes and expert opinions.
This story was compiled from reports by IEEE Spectrum and IEEE Spectrum.