Volunteering Boosts Career Skills, Says IEEE Study
According to recent research by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), volunteering can have a significant impact on one's professional development, providing opportunities to build valuable skills such as networking, leadership, and learning. A study published in IEEE Spectrum found that women who volunteer are more likely to gain hands-on experience, expand their networks, and develop essential skills that are highly valued by employers.
The research, which was conducted by the IEEE Women in Engineering Committee, revealed that volunteering can be a springboard for professional growth. "Volunteering is not just about giving back to the community; it's also about investing in oneself," said Prachi Jain, senior marketing specialist for IEEE Women in Engineering. "Through volunteering, women can gain valuable skills and experience that can boost their career prospects."
The study found that five key ways volunteering can benefit one's career include: networking, learning leadership skills, gaining hands-on experience, expanding professional networks, and developing essential skills such as communication and problem-solving. According to IEEE Spectrum, these benefits are particularly significant for women in the workplace, who often face challenges in advancing their careers.
The research highlights the importance of volunteering in today's job market. "Employers are looking for candidates with a range of skills, including leadership, communication, and problem-solving," said Jain. "Volunteering provides an opportunity to develop these skills in a real-world setting."
The IEEE Women in Engineering Committee has been promoting the benefits of volunteering among its members and staff. The committee's annual meeting in Panama provided a platform for women to share their experiences and best practices in volunteering. According to IEEE Spectrum, the meeting was attended by over 100 women from around the world.
While the study focuses on women, the benefits of volunteering are not limited to this demographic. Anyone can benefit from volunteering, regardless of profession or background. As Jain noted, "Volunteering is a win-win situation; it's good for the community and good for one's career."
The research suggests that volunteering can have a lasting impact on one's career. According to IEEE Spectrum, women who volunteer are more likely to advance in their careers and achieve greater success in their chosen fields.
In conclusion, the study by the IEEE Women in Engineering Committee highlights the importance of volunteering in today's job market. By investing time and effort into volunteering, individuals can gain valuable skills and experience that can boost their career prospects. As Prachi Jain noted, "Volunteering is not just about giving back to the community; it's also about investing in oneself."
This story was compiled from reports by IEEE Spectrum and IEEE Spectrum.
