Ways To Gain More Varied Work Experience

Do you feel as though you’re stuck in a job rut? Lots of people do. It can be hard to gain the new skills and experience you need to get that promotion or break into a different industry while still in your current role. Don’t be disheartened though! There are several tactics you can use to boost your skill set and gain more varied work experience while continuing to fulfil your existing job obligations. Interested? Here are four ideas to get you inspired!

1. Take On Extra Responsibilities

If your current role is leaving you feeling as though you still have room to grow, speak to your manager about taking on some extra responsibilities outside of your job description. This can be a fantastic chance to try your hand at something more challenging and gain valuable experience to put on your CV. As you’re unlikely to be paid extra for this, it’s best to only do it on a temporary basis – for example, for one specific project with a definitive end date. This helps you to boost your skills without being exploited. Look out for interesting collaborations and make sure you’re the first to volunteer for them.

2. Try Freelance Work

Another option is to create your own opportunities for growth by starting a side business. These days it’s possible to do all sorts of freelance work from home on your own, so you’re sure to find an idea that matches your current abilities and availability while also enabling you to gain experience and develop new skills. Some ideas include:

• Teaching English to non-native speakers

• Working as a locum pharmacist, nurse or doctor, depending on your qualifications

• Building websites

• Making artwork, jewellery, or other creative works

• Offering personal training sessions

• Tutoring children in subjects you’re good at

• Doing photography for weddings and other events

• Graphic design work

• Translation work if you know more than one language

3. Volunteer

One idea for gaining experience that’s often overlooked by people is volunteering. Have a quick search online to find out what sort of charities and other nonprofits operate in your local area, and see if any stand out to you. Not only do you get to work on your skills, you will also be helping a cause that you care about. It could be a local animal sanctuary, a shelter for homeless people, or an environmental charity. Even schools tend to have positions available. Most places will let you choose between a regular commitment and one-off events or activities, and there are even tasks you can help with from home – meaning there’s an option to suit everyone.

4. Network

In many cases, opportunities arise because of who you know not what you know. By making an effort to broaden your professional network, you’ll increase your likelihood of finding out about chances to gain more varied work experience. This could be by someone asking you to help them with a project, or inviting you to join a team they’re putting together. Try attending various workshops, conferences and other industry events, and challenge yourself to make three meaningful connections at each one. You never know what they might lead to!