10 Reasons to "Volunteer for Success"

Looking for a way to fast track your career? Want to develop your professional and leadership skills? Increase your earnings potential? Make new friends? How about simply trying to find purpose, and make a difference? And more importantly... serve your community, and those in need in the process?

Then Volunteer. Quit complaining, get off the couch, raise your hand and say; "yes"... I can help. What can I do? I'm here to serve!

Trust me… you have something of real value to offer to others.

This is good advise for anyone at any age. Today's younger workforce, the millennials and teens and young adults, would be particularly well served to create a habit of volunteering. They are already pre-dispositioned to making a difference in society and our world. In this sketchy job market, this is what could set them apart.

Without the people, opportunities and knowledge that only came my way through volunteer activities, I would not have enjoyed the success, satisfaction or sense of fulfillment I have. I would have simply been the best funnel cake maker on the west coast... not that there is anything wrong with that.

I have spent the better part of a lifetime, with a consistent commitment of contributing to one organization or another. For me it has been the local Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Clubs. Statewide, National and International industry trade associations. I have always volunteered for my church, civic groups, food bank, political campaigns, fundraisers, schools, and more "one off" projects that I can count. I've also witnessed that others that have a high self confidence, and get a lot done… are typically very giving of their time and resources.

I primarily work within the amusement park and attractions industry. I'm a food and beverage operator, and I consult with many other venues, helping them grow their revenues and profit. Additionally, within those same businesses, I provide solutions and strategies that allow these employers to better engage with, and get their next generation of employees to be more productive and contributing in the workplace.

I only mention that, due to the fact that when I was much younger, and volunteering for our industry, many older and wiser industry veterans, taught me more than I could have ever learned in any other environment. They whipped this young kid into shape, and set me on a pathway for professional success.

I've gained friendships, leadership skills, communications and public speaking growth, business best practices, as well as a steady dose of spiritual, fitness, and educational development. I have also learned to humbly serve, when you are face to face with others who have real hurt, pain, and needs that far exceed my own petty issues. I'd like to think I have become a better person by consistently looking outward to serve others.

Don't volunteer with a selfish, "what's in it for you" mindset. But there is no doubt you can help yourself... by helping others.

One additional lesson I have learned... is that it's alright to say NO. You can only do so much before it becomes unproductive. Always go with your strengths... you'll get more accomplished and enjoy the process.

Following are just 10 reasons to consider creating a lifestyle of volunteering, that will set you up for a lifetime of success;

#1. Serving Others is the Right Thing to do.

#2. Find Purpose and Make a Difference

#3. Family Activity

#4. Leadership Development

#5. Improve People, Social and Communications skills

#6. Public Speaking Opportunities

#7 Friendships and Relationship Building

#8 Business Development and Networking

#9 Volunteers tend to be more self confident and positive

#10. Makes You More Employable

There are so many other reasons and benefits associated with volunteering. Find an organization, a cause, or an individual that needs help... and that is aligned with your own moral compass and strengths. And jump right in.

What is your experience, positive or negative with volunteering?