April is National Volunteer Month, a time to acknowledge those who dedicate their time and talents to help others. At SCORE, our volunteers are essential, enabling us to fulfill our mission of supporting entrepreneurs in starting and growing their small businesses.
Since 1964, SCORE’s volunteer business mentors have provided guidance and resources to over 11 million entrepreneurs. In 2017 alone, SCORE volunteers helped create 54,500 businesses and 61,500 jobs. But it’s not just the clients who benefit; volunteers also gain personally and professionally from mentoring.
If you’re considering volunteering as a business mentor but are still on the fence, think about these personal and professional benefits that come with mentoring.
**Sense of Personal Accomplishment**
Mentoring provides a sense of achievement as you help aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners overcome challenges. Whether assisting with a startup or guiding an established business in marketing, you get the satisfaction of making a positive impact in your community and boosting the local economy.
**Camaraderie**
Joining SCORE means becoming part of a dedicated team of over 10,000 volunteers who share a passion for small business success. Mentors leverage each other’s strengths and expertise to help entrepreneurs overcome obstacles. With more than 300 chapters across the U.S., mentors meet to collaborate, learn, and build lasting friendships.
**Improved Communication Skills**
Mentoring sharpens your ability to communicate effectively. Through face-to-face sessions, leading workshops, participating in roundtables, or other initiatives, you can enhance your speaking and writing confidence.
**Enhanced Leadership Skills**
As a mentor, you’ll have numerous opportunities to refine your leadership abilities. By providing guidance and feedback to clients, taking on roles like committee head, and engaging other volunteers, you can develop and practice leading skills.
**Community Connections**
Mentoring opens doors to connect with a diverse range of individuals and organizations. From community leaders and chambers of commerce to economic development groups, you’ll expand your personal and professional network, potentially opening new opportunities.
**Ongoing Learning**
Guiding business owners also enhances your expertise. Each SCORE client presents unique questions and situations, allowing you to constantly expand your entrepreneurial knowledge. SCORE’s webinars, workshops, and online resources serve as excellent professional development tools.
**Resume Enhancement**
If career advancement is your goal, being a SCORE business mentor adds a credible and respected community service point to your resume. Mentoring shows leadership, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate—all qualities valued by employers.
Mentoring not only benefits the entrepreneurs but also enriches the lives of volunteers by enhancing their skills, knowledge, and connections.
Interested in Volunteering?
National Volunteer Month is the perfect time to find a volunteer position that suits you. SCORE welcomes you to join our community of committed business mentors. Enjoy the benefits of volunteering while helping small businesses succeed. Become a SCORE volunteer today.
