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What incentives to volunteers get to respond to students like myself on this platform?
Just curious as to why there are so many volunteers responding to people on this site. Do you all get paid or get some other kind of incentive
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7 answers
Updated
Christina’s Answer
So, you're wondering what incentives we get for responding to students like yourself on this platform???
Great question!
Technically? Nothing.
Zilch. Nada. Nil.
So, we get no pay, no incentive, no money, no benefit, no credits or points or prizes.
It's not even academically beneficial, really, so not even really useful to add to our resume or anything.
So, then, why on earth would we spend our time doing it?!!!
Well, I imagine it could possibly be an ego boost for some...you know, being some kind of expert and all...
But, that's not it.
It's that we *want* to. We like connecting with you, to support and encourage you.
We remember what it was like when we had ideas and dreams of who we wanted to become, but had few or no mentors or guides to show us how to get there.
We remember that in grade school or high school, sometimes the teachers and counselors around you don't always feel like the ones who want you to succeed.
We know that some of you have parents who are so busy with their own lives and challenges that they may not be able to be the cheerleader or role model that you feel comfortable reaching out for.
We know what a difference it can make when someone, even a stranger, gives validity and time to your dream.
Keep dreaming.
Keeps striving.
You see, technically, I get nothing.
But sometimes, I have bad days too, when work or life or friends or family are really stressful.
In those times, something as simple as reaching out to do something nice for someone else can truly brighten your day. Remember that. And when you are having a dark or frustrating or sad day, reach out and do something nice for someone else just like we are all doing for you.
Take a moment to fully absorb that even strangers want you to succeed.
As much as possible, surround yourself with people who want you to succeed.
When you are feeling rather down, go out of your way to do something nice for someone else.
If this forum still exists when you are a professional, come back here and give free advice to others.
Great question!
Technically? Nothing.
Zilch. Nada. Nil.
So, we get no pay, no incentive, no money, no benefit, no credits or points or prizes.
It's not even academically beneficial, really, so not even really useful to add to our resume or anything.
So, then, why on earth would we spend our time doing it?!!!
Well, I imagine it could possibly be an ego boost for some...you know, being some kind of expert and all...
But, that's not it.
It's that we *want* to. We like connecting with you, to support and encourage you.
We remember what it was like when we had ideas and dreams of who we wanted to become, but had few or no mentors or guides to show us how to get there.
We remember that in grade school or high school, sometimes the teachers and counselors around you don't always feel like the ones who want you to succeed.
We know that some of you have parents who are so busy with their own lives and challenges that they may not be able to be the cheerleader or role model that you feel comfortable reaching out for.
We know what a difference it can make when someone, even a stranger, gives validity and time to your dream.
Keep dreaming.
Keeps striving.
You see, technically, I get nothing.
But sometimes, I have bad days too, when work or life or friends or family are really stressful.
In those times, something as simple as reaching out to do something nice for someone else can truly brighten your day. Remember that. And when you are having a dark or frustrating or sad day, reach out and do something nice for someone else just like we are all doing for you.
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Loved reading this, thanks!
Justin
Updated
Douglas’s Answer
Just like many others, I'm a volunteer who happily gives my time without any payment. When I was in high school and college, a platform like this didn't exist. If it had, I would have jumped at the chance to ask questions and learn from others. I really enjoy lending a hand, especially when it comes to high-impact areas like career development. Career Village offers a wonderful platform for this. Wishing you all the best as you chase your dream career!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Justin
Updated
Marisa’s Answer
Giving back is not only rewarding but also the right thing to do. Throughout my career journey, I've received valuable advice and feedback that significantly influenced my choices and fostered my growth. This is the essence of why we give back - to lend a helping hand to others, to contribute to our communities. It's not about the money, it's about making a difference.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Justin
Updated
Katie’s Answer
My company has a specific focus on giving back which motivates all employees to explore volunteer opportunities such as this! From what I can tell the only motivators to contribute are intrinsic.
Thank you, Katie!
Justin
Updated
Karen’s Answer
My incentive to answer questions is the hope that I can share thoughts and encouragement to students who are looking for answers. I've been blessed with a good life and like to scatter kindness wherever I can. At the end of our lives, it won't be about how much money we made or titles we've earned, but what we did to help others.
With every good wish!
With every good wish!
Thank you!
Justin
Really nice that you took the time to thank everyone who gave you advice. Blessings to you!
Karen Kitchel
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Great question! I've often pondered the same thing. From what I've observed, platforms like this usually have a large number of registered volunteers, but at any given moment, only a few are actively engaged. This arrangement allows me to contribute when I have spare time during my workday. For instance, today I wrapped up my lunch a bit early and had some time to spare before my next meeting. As volunteers, we don't have any set quotas or time obligations.
The motivation for me to assist students like you on this platform doesn't come from any financial gain. Rather, my reward is the opportunity to maintain my regular job with a company that values community involvement. This is something that really matters to me. I want to be part of a company that cares about more than just making profits.
I choose to volunteer on this site because I wish I had a mentor during my younger years. I believe it would have guided me to make wiser decisions. If I can assist someone with just 15 minutes of my time, that's priceless.
On a different note, the ability to ask insightful questions is one of the most valuable skills you can develop. Always question, scrutinize data, and conduct your own research. I decided to answer your question today because you asked a great question, rather than simply accepting random advice from an online source. You're doing great! Keep it up, and you're sure to achieve great things in life.
The motivation for me to assist students like you on this platform doesn't come from any financial gain. Rather, my reward is the opportunity to maintain my regular job with a company that values community involvement. This is something that really matters to me. I want to be part of a company that cares about more than just making profits.
I choose to volunteer on this site because I wish I had a mentor during my younger years. I believe it would have guided me to make wiser decisions. If I can assist someone with just 15 minutes of my time, that's priceless.
On a different note, the ability to ask insightful questions is one of the most valuable skills you can develop. Always question, scrutinize data, and conduct your own research. I decided to answer your question today because you asked a great question, rather than simply accepting random advice from an online source. You're doing great! Keep it up, and you're sure to achieve great things in life.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Justin
Updated
Mohit’s Answer
While I don't receive any financial compensation for answering questions here, I'm not driven by monetary rewards.
What motivates me is the joy I get from lending a hand; from assisting students who are grappling with the same hurdles I once did. Think of it as a way of giving back. Just as my seniors were there for me, I'm here to extend the same support to others.
The real reward for me is the sense of accomplishment or the heartfelt "Thank You" I get in response to my answers. If my guidance can make even a small difference in someone's life, then every minute I've spent here is absolutely worth it.
And while I won't argue that money can't buy happiness, I believe it can provide the means to help others. In doing so, it indirectly brings me joy. So, in a way, money does contribute to my happiness.
What motivates me is the joy I get from lending a hand; from assisting students who are grappling with the same hurdles I once did. Think of it as a way of giving back. Just as my seniors were there for me, I'm here to extend the same support to others.
The real reward for me is the sense of accomplishment or the heartfelt "Thank You" I get in response to my answers. If my guidance can make even a small difference in someone's life, then every minute I've spent here is absolutely worth it.
And while I won't argue that money can't buy happiness, I believe it can provide the means to help others. In doing so, it indirectly brings me joy. So, in a way, money does contribute to my happiness.
Thank you!
Justin