Volunteering is usually thought of as a one-way process that benefits a person in need, but not the volunteer. Of course there is the satisfaction achieved from making a difference to the life of someone who needs your help, but what other things can you gain by volunteering?

A survey carried out by TimeBank through Reed Executive among 200 of the UK’s leading businesses revealed some very interesting information about volunteering.

• 73% of employers would employ candidates with volunteering experience over one who doesn’t.
• 94% of employers believe that volunteering can add to skills.
• 94% of employees who volunteered to learn new skills had benefited either by getting their first job, improving their salary, or being promoted.

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that people who volunteered about 40 hours per year had a 30 percent reduced risk of dying compared with other people who didn't volunteer.

A study of one group of volunteers provided an insight into the social health benefits related to volunteering, with nearly all volunteers reporting improved self-esteem, increased confidence and reduced social isolation as a result of their participation.