There is no doubt that volunteering is good for your spirit, but did you know that doing a good deed could also potentially lead to new job opportunities? Not only can volunteering help increase the size of your professional network, it can also give you the confidence boost you need to set your sights upon the jobs you are the most interested in. Here is a look at 5 reasons why volunteering can help you in your job search.

Reason #1: Expanding Your Network

When it comes to finding a job, you can never have too many people on your contact list. By volunteering, you can expand this contact list significantly. Furthermore, by targeting those organizations that your industry supports, you can be sure you are making some very important contacts. You might even want to consider volunteering with the company you are interested in working with, as this will certainly help you build a strong relationship with the right people.

Reason #2: Rejuvenate Your Spirit

Let’s face it – potential employers can sense when you are desperate and desperation is very off-putting. By putting in some volunteer time with a cause or organization that you believe in, you give yourself a renewed sense of self-worth. These positive feelings will spill over into the conversations you with people in your professional network as well as in your job interviews, which will give you a better chance of landing the job of your dreams.

Reason #3: Learn New Skills

No matter where you decide to volunteer, you are likely to learn new skills or to improve upon the ones you already have. If you are considering a career change, doing some volunteer work in the field you are considering is a great way to determine whether or not you are truly well suited to that industry. Similarly, you can pick up new skills that could prove to be valuable within your industry.

Reason #4: It Looks Good on Your Résumé

Having volunteer work listed on your résumé is always something that will catch the attention of potential employers. Furthermore, if you are going through a jobless period, having volunteer work listed on your résumé is a good way to fill that void. By having volunteer work listed on your résumé, you show potential employers that you are a compassionate and energetic person. If you want to really impress potential employers, take on a greater amount of responsibility with the organization you volunteer with. Serving on the board or managing a fundraiser, for example, are both great ways to demonstrate your leadership skills.

Reason #5: Make Good Impressions

Volunteering also provides you with the opportunity to make a good impression on those around you. You never know who the people you are volunteering with may be – you could very well be working with current or future CEOs of corporations that can really help take your career to a whole new level.