Application Tips for Volunteers
Stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of landing the perfect volunteer opportunity
Don't send generic applications. Read the opportunity description carefully and highlight how your specific skills match their needs.
Examples:
- Reference specific projects mentioned in the posting
- Explain why their mission resonates with you
- Connect your experience to their requirements
Focus on achievements and experiences most relevant to the role. Use specific examples and quantify your impact when possible.
Examples:
- "Increased website traffic by 40% through SEO optimization"
- "Managed team of 5 volunteers on community project"
- "Created fundraising campaign that raised $10,000"
Your application message is your first impression. Make it personal, professional, and passionate.
Examples:
- Start with why you're excited about this opportunity
- Keep it concise but meaningful (200-300 words)
- End with a clear call to action
Don't just list job titles. Explain how skills from your professional life can benefit their organization.
Examples:
- Project management → Event coordination
- Data analysis → Impact measurement
- Customer service → Donor relations
Set realistic expectations about your time commitment. It's better to under-promise and over-deliver.
Examples:
- Specify exact hours per week you can dedicate
- Mention any upcoming availability changes
- Be honest about other commitments
If you haven't heard back within the stated timeframe, send a polite follow-up message.
Examples:
- Wait at least the specified response time
- Keep follow-ups brief and friendly
- Reiterate your interest and availability
- ✓Complete your profile 100% before applying
- ✓Research the organization thoroughly
- ✓Proofread your application for errors
- ✓Respond promptly to messages from NGOs
- ✓Be genuine and authentic in your communication
- ✓Ask thoughtful questions about the role
- ✗Don't apply to every opportunity without reading
- ✗Don't exaggerate your skills or experience
- ✗Don't ghost an NGO after they respond
- ✗Don't use overly formal or robotic language
- ✗Don't forget to mention your motivation
- ✗Don't apply if you can't commit to the time requirement
Subject: Application for Social Media Coordinator Role
Dear [Organization Name] Team,
I'm excited to apply for the Social Media Coordinator position. As a marketing professional with 5 years of experience in digital campaigns, I'm passionate about using my skills to amplify the voices of organizations creating positive change.
Your mission to provide education access to underserved communities deeply resonates with me. I recently read about your scholarship program in [specific article/report], and I'd love to help expand your reach through strategic social media.
In my current role, I've grown our Instagram following by 200% and increased engagement rates by 45% through data-driven content strategies. I'm confident I can bring similar results to your organization.
I can commit 8-10 hours per week, primarily on weekday evenings and weekend mornings. I'm available to start immediately and would love to discuss how I can contribute to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to support your important work.
Best regards,
[Your Name]