Including unpaid experience on a curriculum vitae provides a documented record of skills and experience gained outside of paid employment. For example, assisting a local charity with event planning demonstrates organizational and project management abilities. This practice allows individuals to showcase a wider range of competencies, filling potential gaps in professional experience or highlighting passions and commitments.
Supplementing a CV with this type of experience can significantly enhance a candidate’s profile. It demonstrates initiative, community engagement, and a willingness to contribute beyond paid work. Historically, the inclusion of such experiences has evolved from simply listing affiliations to detailing specific responsibilities and accomplishments, reflecting a growing recognition of the transferable skills acquired. This strengthens applications, particularly for entry-level roles or career changes, by showcasing valuable attributes often sought by employers.