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Nearly Four in 10 Professionals Volunteer Time Outside of Work

TORONTO, Nov. 12, 2015 /CNW/ - With the holidays approaching, many people may be looking for opportunities to give back. What they may not realize is how their community service also could be helping their careers. In a Robert Half survey, nearly four in 10 (37 per cent) Canadian professionals said they volunteer outside of work. Respondents said their philanthropic activities help them improve their sense of well-being and effectiveness at the office (58 per cent), develop new skills (48 per cent), expand their network (47 per cent), and enhance their company's visibility (14 per cent).

The research also revealed demographic differences: More female (38 per cent) than male professionals (35 per cent) said they volunteer outside of work. Greater numbers of workers ages 55 and over (47 per cent) reported donating their time than colleagues ages 35-54 (39 per cent) or 18-34 (30 per cent).

Workers surveyed were asked, "Do you volunteer outside of work?" Their responses:

Of respondents who volunteer outside of the office, those workers were also asked, "How does volunteering outside of work help you professionally?" Their responses*: 

"Giving your time to help make someone else's life a little easier is a powerful way to engage with your community. Not only does it inspire change and possibility for those you help, it allows you to cultivate a broader network as well as skillsets that can impact your own direction and growth, personally or professionally," said Greg Scileppi, president of Robert Half, International Staffing Operations.

"Doing good makes people feel good," added Scileppi. "Companies shouldn't underestimate the positive impact workplace volunteer programs can have on their employees and their business, such as boosting internal morale and encouraging a shared commitment to reciprocal goals that go beyond the bottom line."

For those who aren't presently volunteering outside of work, Robert Half offers the following four tips for getting started:

1. Find an organization in need. Search for organizations you care about in your community, and then contact them to see how they could use your help. Be sure to explain your particular skills and interests.
2. Check with your employer. Many companies have ties to nonprofit organizations or facilitate charitable activities. Other companies offer volunteer matching or grant programs for those employees who give their time.
3. Invite your colleagues to join you. One person can make a big impact, but there could be power in numbers if your coworkers come, too.
4. Look beyond the holidays. There are community service opportunities available throughout the year, such as park cleanups and exercising for a good cause.

About the Survey

The survey was developed by Robert Half and conducted by an independent research firm. It is based on responses from more than 440 workers employed at Canadian companies.

About Robert Half

Founded in 1948, Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm. The Menlo Park, Calif.-based company has more than 340 staffing locations worldwide and offers online job search and management tools at roberthalf.ca. For career and management advice, follow our blog at blog.roberthalf.com. Follow Robert Half on Twitter at @RobertHalf_CAN for additional workplace advice and hiring trends.

SOURCE Robert Half Canada

Image with caption: "The Power of Volunteering (CNW Group/Robert Half Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20151112_C7518_PHOTO_EN_543168.jpg