Standing Out in a Competitive Job Market: How Volunteering Can Open Doors 

As unemployment rates remain high, many language educators are navigating a job market that feels tougher than ever. Between scrolling through countless job boards, tailoring resumes and cover letters, and trying to match qualifications with each unique posting, it can start to feel like a full-time job just to apply. And when you see hundreds of applicants listed under a single position, it’s easy to wonder… how can anyone possibly stand out? 

I’ve been there myself. I’ve come across postings with 500 or even over 700 applicants competing for the same role. More than half of them were far more qualified than I was, with years of experience across diverse educational settings. It was humbling, and honestly, discouraging at times. But it also pushed me to think differently about how to gain meaningful experience and stay visible in the field. 

That’s when I realized the value of volunteering. Employers often look for related work experience, but when paid opportunities are scarce, volunteering can bridge that gap. It’s a way to stay active, build your portfolio, and contribute to the profession while expanding your network. 

TESL Ontario, in particular, offers fantastic volunteer opportunities that allow educators to stay engaged and grow professionally. Some of these include: 

• Blog Writer: Contribute articles on industry trends, teaching practices, and professional insights while collaborating with the editorial team. 

• Webinar Team Member: Support knowledge exchange through organizing, facilitating, and promoting webinars for the TESL community. 

• Committee Member: Work with other educators to develop initiatives, plan events, and enhance programming that supports the profession. 

• Volunteer Teaching or Support Roles: Explore opportunities on TESL Ontario’s job board to gain hands-on classroom or program experience. If you are interested in pursuing a volunteer opportunity, check out the webpage here.  

Volunteering isn’t just about filling a gap on your resume; it’s about learning, connecting, and contributing to something bigger. In a competitive job market, that kind of engagement can make all the difference in standing out.