Alternative means of "getting experience"

[carteki]

I have found myself in an interesting situation lately. I have identified some "holes" in my experience that I would like to fill. Despite numerous requests to work I have not been able to do this in my job, so I am now looking at other options. The area that I feel I need more experience in is people management.

Do you have any suggestions as to how to get this experience outside of work. This could be by volunteering or some other means.

[littlegreenman]

Well, I think those soft skills you are after can be obtained to a certain degree at seminars. You will have to be careful though, there are a lot of seminars out there that are rubbish and they only want your money. Further those soft skills are usually something that is in your character a little bit already.

[carteki]

Thank you for your feedback LGM. Would any employers out there consider attending seminars in lieu of experience for people management?

Regards
Kim

[Strong Eagle]

I would look at volunteer positions within organizations. For example, I have gained experience in event management by having responsibility everything needed to put on an outdoor event for 1200 people.

Usually, you get to start smaller, and as you learn most volunteer organizations are dying for skilled people to take on more responsibility. So you match up needs with your 'experience wanted' areas... and organizations have needs in finance, membership, IT, sponsorship, PR and communications, governance, volunteer management, programs, events, and lots more.

[Girl_Next_Door]

I received something from "The Kind Exchange".

I think you can go there for more options:
http://www.thekindexchange.com/kinddeed ... ories.aspx

If not, this one is a PR related position. Although they are looking for experienced PR professional, if they cant find help, I am sure they will take any volunteers??

Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations needs a PR professional to draft a media plan and first press release for SCWO's "Celebration of Women in the Arts" Festival as part of SCWO's 30th Anniversary next year (by 29 Sept)

or

Church of Praise; a community church is looking for an event manager to conceive and project-plan a fundraising event