Is pro bono on your resume?
Every year The Wall Street Journal publishes their Corporate Recruiters Survey that identifies traits, which top companies seek in MBA graduates. It is no surprise that the top five are all aligned with pro bono service (and especially the Taproot Foundation's team-based model).1. Communication and interpersonal skills
Working in a client-services setting and across sectors requires and strengthens an individual's communication and interpersonal skills.
2. Ability to work well within a team
Our pro bono projects require a team of strangers to quickly storm, norm and perform. Successful pro bono volunteers have to be able to thrive on a team.
3. Personal ethics and integrity
This one is pretty self-evident.
4. Analytical and problem solving skills
Applying your craft to a new sector strengthens and utilizes these skills and keeps them fresh.
5. Work ethic
Pro bono volunteers love their craft so much that they want to use it to help others after they are done with their 10-12 hour work day.
The bottom line: pro bono service on a resume is a good indicator of a good candidate and worth a serious look.
Great post! I can't tell you how many times having Taproot on my resume has helped with job interviews, meeting clients and business partners and establishing credibility with new colleagues. In addition to the great skills associated with pro bono work, it indicates shared values and says a lot about personal character that you couldn't otherwise uncover in an interview.