August 8, 2013
Many young professionals donate hundreds of hours each year providing assistance at nonprofits, but some don't realize the opportunity organizations have given them can make them look better in the eyes of employers. Today's job market makes it difficult to gain experience, which is why volunteering has recently become a more viable option. However, only 46 percent of college students that responded to a recent Deloitte survey feel that nonprofits are a good place to grow their skill sets.
Hiring managers value those who have volunteered
Whether young adults are putting in just a few hours per week or have an internship position at a nonprofit, hiring managers are more interested in professionals who have spent spare time volunteering at nonprofits. In fact, 81 percent of HR executives that took part in the "2013 Deloitte Volunteer IMPACT Survey" stated they take the skills acquired by volunteers into account, while the same percentage said they consider recent college graduates who have volunteered as more desirable than those who haven't. Nonprofits that want to benefit from the help of young professionals can use these statistics as a way to draw people into their organization.
"As passionate advocates of skilled volunteerism and pro bono service in our communities, we are excited about its benefits as a bridge to employment," said Joe Echevarria, CEO at Deloitte. "These findings align with our efforts to foster a college-going culture, support returning veterans and in the process make our communities and America stronger."
Volunteering provides valuable experience
When in college, it's often difficult for young professionals to gain the experience they need to be able to compete for entry-level positions. This is why nonprofits should open their doors to college students and provide a flexible environment for them to work in. Hiring managers like to see that candidates have had some type of experience at an organization before bringing them in. Lynn Taylor, a career expert, told Forbes that college students should always be looking for some type of part-time, temporary or volunteer work experience.
"If you can't find a job in your chosen field of study, any job is better than none, as long as you remain focused on your first priority: succeeding in your path of study and absorbing the knowledge you're there to gain," Taylor said.
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First Nonprofit has been a great partner. They have helped us saved hundreds of thousands of dollars! They have awesome resources for our nonprofit organization. Thanks for the partnership.
Life is certainly busy these days but having business partners like First Nonprofit has made some of the process hassle free. We have worked with this team for years. When we changed payroll systems, they outlined every step. I think this team is terrific and I know they get the job done! Thank you, Cruz, to all the team at FNP.
FNP has helped our agency to save thousands of dollars every year on our unemployment coverage. The service is phenomenal, and we are thankful to their team as our partner. My experience working with Marshall on the advocacy around UE for nonprofits was also a highlight as someone who teaches advocacy and lobbying for nonprofits. Really, your whole team is top shelf, so thank YOU!
Chicago Children’s Theatre has greatly benefited from our partnership with First Nonprofit, and I have always enjoyed working with the staff on our filings and any complicated questions. I would not hesitate to recommend First Nonprofit to fellow nonprofits. We’re very happy customers.
FNP is a great resource for Daniel Kids. To have a TPA that we can count on to take point on not only managing our unemployment claims, but to support and guide any protest hearing, is invaluable. All the professional support staff we have worked with have been excellent, very knowledgeable and responsive. We are grateful for the help and support, thank you.
When I first began in my position at my organization, I hadn’t had experience working with a company like FNP. The staff was so patient and helpful in helping to explain the benefits of First Nonprofit. Anytime I reach out with a question I receive a quick, clear, and thorough response. I’m so thankful that we decided to partner with FNP. Their excellence in customer service, coupled with their variety of packages frees us up to truly serve our staff and community with a peace of mind knowing that our organization is protected against unanticipated unemployment insurance expenses.
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