Empowering the next generation: volunteer for CV and interview sessions
Empowering the next generation: volunteer for CV and interview sessions
Written by Robin Hawthorn, Senior Education Project Manager, ELBA
Want to support local east London students and help prepare them for the world of work? Consider volunteering for one of our CV Review and Mock Interview sessions.
Why your contribution is essential
Many young people, especially those from low-income communities, lack access to the professional networks and guidance that can make a huge difference in their future job search. By volunteering, you are giving insight from those who are in the professional world to the students in local classrooms.
What students get out of it
Students gain invaluable, real-world experience that goes beyond the classroom. The sessions provide a fantastic opportunity for them to practice and receive constructive feedback. By engaging with professionals like you, they:
- Gain confidence: They learn to present themselves and their skills effectively, which reduces anxiety about future interviews.
- Improve their CVs: They receive personalised feedback on their CVs, learning how to highlight their strengths and format in a professional manner.
- Develop interview skills: They practice answering common and competency based questions, refine their communication style and learn how to navigate conversations with professionals.
“The volunteer gave detailed advice on how to structure and build on experiences I have had. The interview experience was nice and a good awakening of how it really works in real life.”
– Student
These sessions directly help students develop key skills from the Skills Builder Framework. This includes “Listening” and “Speaking” through mock interviews, and “Problem Solving” by learning to articulate their answers to interview questions and scenarios. By helping students set clear goals for their learning and career development through interview practice and feedback, you will also help students develop to “Adapting” and “Planning”.
What volunteers get out of it
Volunteering for CV reviews and mock interviews is a fantastic way to give back while also developing your own professional skills:
- Develop your interpersonal skills: You will develop your own communication, leadership and coaching skills. By providing feedback, you will practice giving complex ideas clearly and concisely to students unfamiliar with the corporate world.
- Gain a new perspective: Engaging with young people can offer new insights into the challenges and perspectives of the next generation of employees.
- Enhance your network: You will volunteer with other professionals who are also dedicated to making a positive impact on the youth of east London.
- Boost your professional career: Including volunteering on your CV demonstrates a commitment to community, personal development and social responsibility.
“Students actively listened, [and I] felt I contributed by giving them technical tips on how to handle the interview process and how to prepare.”
– Student
If you are interested in making an impact on a young person’s future, please consider signing up for an ELBA CV review and/or mock interview session, with some specifically due in late November 2025 through to February 2026.
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