Career Management for Moms: Targeted Volunteering

A friend of mine has a notepad on her refrigerator that reads, "Stop Me Before I Volunteer Again!" Indeed, that is a familiar sentiment to many moms at this time of year. We like to be of service, but our time is so limited.

If you've been feeling conflicted about your volunteer obligations, consider "targeted volunteering." Instead of waiting for people to approach you about chairing the bake sale committee, think proactively and seek out challenging assignments with organizations that really interest you.

You'll be happier -- they'll benefit from your hard work -- and in the process, you'll gain new skills, contacts and experiences to help bolster your resume:

1. Chair a committee for your professional association: One of my clients did this when she was trying to break into the field of training and development and within two years she was elected president of her local chapter of ASTD -- a great credential to mention when pitching new business.

2. Accept volunteer assignments with organizations that are aligned with your career interests: Thinking about becoming a teacher? Volunteer at your child's school and learn more about the day-to-day challenges of being a teacher. Interested in grant-writing? Seek out opportunities to write a grant for a local community agency.

3. Run for President: As president of a volunteer organization you'll have opportunities to polish your management, public-speaking and long-range planning skills. This is a smart way to add relevant leadership skills to your resume, without having to wait for your boss to promote you.

4. Join a Board: Volunteer to serve on the board of directors of a high-profile organization. The people you'll meet will help broaden your sphere of knowledge and influence and you'll enhance your management skills at the same time.

5. Be a role-model for your child: I can still remember the pride I felt when my mom served as the PTA president and spoke in front of the whole school at assembly time. Even if you can only spare a few hours during the school year, your children are bound to love having your presence in the classroom or on a field trip -- and you'll be teaching them an important lesson about the value of volunteering in the process.