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Fed up of being used

(33 Posts)
BlueBelle Mon 04-Apr-22 08:37:35

I think an interview is to see what sort of person you are and if you would fit in as well as if you are qualified enough unfortunately you choose to use it as a free professional advice session which may have been overwhelming and also seen as very critical of the organisation
It was your choice to offer them your free very professional advice
A big shame for you but remember next time keep your main knowledge back until you get the post
Good luck for any future applications

PECS Mon 04-Apr-22 08:04:44

Relooking at your OP AliceS maybe they took your feedback as too critical. If those interviewing you were personally invested in the things for which you offered constructive advice & may have taken umbrage. Or was there a question in the process asking for your opinions on website etc?

Oopsadaisy1 Mon 04-Apr-22 07:57:07

It sounds as though you were overqualified for a volunteer position.

Maybe the Director wanted a volunteer who be quiet and nod a lot?

M0nica Mon 04-Apr-22 07:55:26

I think anyone who engages in volunteer work sooner ot later comes up against a group, that ask for help that they do not really want, or cannot use.

I have been involved with a number of organisations over the years and in most cases the work has been fulfilling and enjoyable, but I have also had disappointments as you have had, with charitie that are overjoyed when you contact them, very keen and then either cannot or do not follow through.

Keep trying, there is a charity out there that is desperate for the skills you offer.

PECS Mon 04-Apr-22 07:36:42

Maybe their style of management & ethos did not align with yours...might be a lucky escape.

Try looking at the Inspiring Governance website. Schools are always on the hunt for governors & trustees with skills, knowledge & time to give.

BlueBelle Mon 04-Apr-22 06:55:55

I d put it behind you and forget about it ….their loss
Perhaps you offered too much advise for an interview and they felt overwhelm by your knowledge

Why not try some more ‘simple’ volunteering where you ll have some fun Think what you enjoy, apart from academia,
Good luck

B9exchange Sun 03-Apr-22 23:48:05

I'm sorry for your poor experience, obviously one organisation that should have jumped at getting you on board and didn't. But there are lots of other organisations, keep going until you find one that is a good fit.

AliceS Sun 03-Apr-22 22:48:59

Hello,
I applied to volunteer as a trustee for a mental health organisation. The meeting and selection process took a long time over 3 months. Met with Director after being an observer to a zoom meeting with my chosen Foundation. The company is £50,000 in debt so offered professional feedback on how to improve web content, social media strategy, fundraising campaigns and community outreach. Had follow up meeting with two on the team. They said it wasn't an interview but were asking me a lot of questions like 'should we employ someone?' 'what do you think is the priority of the organisation?' 'How would we promote the foundation?' etc. One of them was very dismissive of my answers and the Director already admitted that he'd filled the position I applied for halfway in the meeting. I felt used and disappointed and feel that I have offered them free advice with no end result. I have studied at three universities, have two fellowships and over 30 years experience across the arts, heritage and education sectors so I don't know why they didn't offer me anything and just strung me along. My family think it is because it's all friends together and the Director said 'I feel that we would be holding you back' which is a weird thing to say as I offered my services for free. Any thoughts? I don't think I will bother volunteering again.