Performing volunteer IT work after long hiatus from work force

BKBroiler

Hello everyone.

I wanted to get some feedback on performing volunteer IT work if you have been away from the work force for quite some time (5 years caring a family member for me). After such an absence, it is hard to get potential employers to look at your resume seriously - even for OS rollouts. I have decided to look for IT-related volunteer opportunities in order to show recent work activity and show I still have the IT skills for the jobs I apply for.

Has anyone done something like this? Is it a sound idea in your opinion? Any advice from those who have gone this route?

Thanks.

f0rgiv3n

Dude, first... You have your head on your shoulders right. This IS the solution to a situation like this or for those just starting out. The problem a lot of people ask about is "all the jobs require experience, but you need a job to get experience".

Returning after 5 years is similar to just starting out but the difference is that you will climb the "knowledge tree" a lot faster since you already know how things were 5 years ago.

I just have to say, nice idea and any employer that willingly turns down free labor... is crazy!

BKBroiler

Thanks. I agree that this is probably my best bet to get back into the swing of things.

NetworkVeteran

When I took a hiatus from IT, I found certifications very helpful for updating my knowledge and proving it was updated. No doubt, volunteer work would also be helpful--you're on the right track.

BKBroiler

@NetworkVeteran

Thanks. As a matter of fact, I obtained a few certs in the period 2010 - 2012 and then enrolled in WGU this past spring in pursuit of a BS IT. I would have done the degree much earlier if I had known WGU existed.