Ten Reasons Why Volunteering Will Grow Your Network

When building relationships you need to meet people in a variety of ways. Attending events is one method but a more effective strategy is to volunteer your time at a business or non-profit organization. Some of the best relationships are built when working with others on a common cause.

Take the time to seek out which organization(s) you would like to get more involved with and contact the board. Every organization can always use help so your generosity should be well received.

So what are the benefits of volunteering? Below are ten reasons why volunteering will help you grow your network and make you feel good at the same time:

1. Find a Cause to Care About: Finding a cause that moves you in some way make you feel good about helping the organization achieve its goals.

2. Develop More Personal Relationships: By working with other volunteers to reach a common goalyou will get to know people more on a personal level.

3. Meet Seasoned Executives: Most organizations have seasoned executives on the board so you will have the opportunity to expand your network with executive-level individuals.

4. Greater Exposure in the Community: With any organizational involvement you will have the opportunity to receive greater exposure in the community and viewd as a leader.

5. Develop Leadership Skills: By taking on a leadership role within an organization you will have the chance to develop your leadership skills by running a committee or serving on the board.

6. Meet a Variety of People: By putting yourself in the position to meet people you will be exposed to a variety of people from all walks of life.

7. Naturally Grow Your Network: Your network will grow because people will seek you out while attending an organization’s events.

8. Enhance Your Personal Brand: You will be able to enhance your personal brand by demonstrating your expertise regarding the subject matter of the organization.

9. Earn the Respect of Others: By talking about your involvement, most people will respect you for taking the time and showing an interest in helping a great cause.

10. Instant Conversation Starter: In addition to earning the respect of others you will have an instant topic of discussion that you will be excited to share with others.

To take relationship building serious make a commitment to help an organization. You will be pleasantly surprised at who you meet and how fun it can be. Some of the best relationships that you will ever develop will come from your involvement.

I have compiled a list of Chicagoland organizations, both professional and non-profit, at http://www.jacobsohn.com/Resources_Organizations_Professional.html