How do I get the courage/confidence to ask about volunteering opportunities?

[dina]

there is this convention i'm going to and i really want to volunteer for their organizations sometime but i'm too scared to ask any of the faculty because i feel so immature and so stupid and lame asking them. how do i overcome this?

[Naomi]

The only way to overcome it is if you tell yourself you can do it
If it were me I would take some calming medicine or remedy such as garlic or fish oil pills before I went to calm my nerves. Maybe even practise asking in your mirror at home if it helps.
Another thing I would do is write down all the reasons I should be a part of the organisation and all the things I could do to help so I can revise the list and convince myself that it's a worthwhile cause.
You won't sound immature or lame at all by asking this, people really respect others that take an interest in things like these. You're just being humble!

Good luck!
Naomi x

[Angela]

It sounds like this cause is really important to you, but the process of asking to volunteer can be intimidating if this is your first time. Please know that many conventions rely on volunteers like you, and there is something for everyone to do! The people who organize this convention will be so happy and relieved to have another volunteer to help out.

One of the ways you can offer your assistance is first think of some of the reasons you want to help out. Do you think the organization is doing some important work? Are you curious about what they are doing? Or maybe you just have some free time and want to give back?

Next, think about some skills that you have that may come in handy. Are you good on the computer? Maybe you could help promote the convention on twitter, facebook, pinterest or other forms of social media. Maybe you could use make posters where different sessions will take place.
Are you a friendly person? Maybe you would be a good greeter. Or, maybe you are very organized and you could help create packets for attendees.

Lastly, think about the method in which you are going to offer your services. Do you feel comfortable talking to someone in person (if that's possible), that's great. Another possibility is making a phone call or sending an email to the organization hosting the convention. A nice way to word it is to say something like, "Hi, my name is __, and I am very interested in your organization because ____. I would love to volunteer to help make this convention a success. I have some skills in ___. Let's talk more about how we can work together. My contact information is (phone number and email)."


Good luck!



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