Employability Awards help you build connections

What would you give for an easier way to connect with the workplace and improve your communication and networking skills without having to go to events and give your elevator pitch?

How about simply getting together with a few other people to offer your help a few hours a week? Yep, by helping out – volunteering – at a local organization or charity, people often end up doing their best networking.

it is not scary, it is not intrusive, it is not your elevator pitch. It is you showing your best version of yourself by providing help to an organisation and meeting other people you may not normally bump into. Yes, it is an informal way of networking, and while you still need to do formal networking, this is a great way to start making inroads into connections with others.

Edge Award graduate Yakeyna Seiuli says being forced her to volunteer outside of AUT helped her meet new people and build new contacts.
“One of these contacts provided me with part-time employment while I was studying. He recommended me because he said I was friendly and he’d seen me engaging well with people so showing good customer service skills.”

Of course, volunteering isn’t just about networking. You are also practicing your communication skills, learning about new aspects of your community and giving back.

Winner of an AUT Edge Award volunteering prize, Kelly D’Mello found volunteering taught her that grades weren’t everything.
“I realised that I need to make time to do the things that I value and make me happy, she says.

Another AUT Edge Award graduate Edward Hong talked of the soft skills he developed.
“It touched on crucial soft skills you need in your career, namely, teamwork, organisation, and a willingness to get involved and help others.”

Not convinced? Here are 7 reasons why Employability and Careers believe volunteering is worth every hour spent.

Still not sure?

And if none of this persuades you just think of all those things you enjoyed as a kid or enjoy now that wouldn’t survive without volunteers - sports clubs, church groups, drama activities, community activities, … the list goes on.

If you’re not sure where to volunteer, think about places in your own community or clubs at AUT through AUTSA, or check out Volunteering Auckland , an umbrella group for a large number of organisations looking for volunteers.

AUT Edge Award students can find ongoing volunteer opportunities on the AUT Edge /Beyond AUT Award Facebook page too.