Frequently asked questions
Here are some common questions about Pdg
About our
services
How is Professionals doing good different to other volunteering opportunities?
Professionals doing good is an ethical, responsible organisations that targets maximum, long-term impact. We believe the sharing of your professional skills in the right place, will effectively support sustainable development in Cambodia.
We personally know, screen and select only responsible organizations who are committed to a clear mission, are already having significant positive impact and ethical practices including child protection, are strong.
We have extensive experience in all areas of non-profit enterprises, social businesses and corporate companies. The Pdg team is passionate about supporting you because we have also been professional volunteers here in Cambodia.
We are based on the ground, in Cambodia. We are not an on-line, remotely based organization. We know the place, we understand how the country works and we are able to provide a face-to-face full in-country support and advice.
Applying
I’m unsure which project is best for me, can you help me decide?
Absolutely! Our team is always happy to assist you to find the most suitable placement. Please reach out to us by filling in the contact us form with your details and questions (link).
I found a project I want to join. How do I apply?
Excellent! Simply click on the button ‘Apply Now’ below the full project description to begin the application process and follow the instructions. Once your application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by us and if shortlisted, we will get in touch for a skype interview. If successful, you will be asked to confirm the offer by making the project fee payment and providing us with official documents.
How far in advance should I apply?
The sooner the better, however we recommend approximately 3 months before your intended departure to allow us the time to prepare for your placement.
Who can apply? Which nationalities do you accept?
We welcome applicants of any nationality, however we do require fluency in English as a minimum. Before applying, please also check your visa requirements for Cambodia. For any specific volunteer requirements, please check the project position description you are interested in.
Is there an age limit to apply or participate?
Yes, our projects require a minimum age of 24 years old. This helps us to ensure our volunteers have some professional qualifications and experience in the field before joining a project.
When can I go?
Most projects are available year round, as long as there is availability. Where projects have set start dates or limited admission dates, you will find these listed under each project description.
I sent an email/applied for a placement and I haven’t heard anything back, what’s going on?
Firstly, please check your spam folder and mark any emails from Pdg as safe to avoid this for future communications. If you still haven’t heard from us, please send us an email and we will get back to you.
I have applied for a volunteer position and have been invited for a Skype interview. How do I prepare for this?
We will get in touch via email and if your application is suitable, we will schedule a first online interview. During this interview, we will ask about your qualifications, achievements, motivation to be involved in the project and also your availability.
Interviews will take place via Skype or Whatsapp. Please make sure you have access to a reliable internet as well as a functioning account on Skype or Whatsapp.
Be mindful of the timezone difference also. Being Professionals doing Good is based in Cambodia and the interview calls are most likely in a different time zone to you. We can jointly work out a time, which may mean a call early morning or late evening for you.
What we will look for,, is that you are making an informed decision and are able to commit in terms of time and availability to the job. Please be honest and sincere and ask as many relevant questions as possible during your interview.
If your profile matches the requirements and your first interview is successful, you will have a second interview organized with a person of reference within the organization offering the assignment.
What if I am not shortlisted or selected in the final interview?
If you have not made it to the shortlist or been selected for the role, do not give up. We are able to keep your information in our archive for one year. When assignments arise, we search in the Professionals doing good talent pool and will contact you should your profile match the requirements of the job. Please let us know if you DO NOT want your application kept on file.
What additional documents are required?
A general background check of applicants will be investigated to verify the applicant’s history.
Some organizations working with children will require a criminal record check and for you to read and sign their Child Protection Policy. For detailed requirements, check the requirements information on each project description.
Volunteer
requirements
Do I need any specific skills or qualifications to volunteer?
Yes. We require previous experience or expertise for the position you are going to apply. There are eligibility requirements and specific job requirements detailed in the volunteer position description. We invite you to read our qualification requirements before you apply.
Do I need to be physically fit?
Some projects might require a certain degree of physical health as you will be working manually for long hours, often in the hot sun. Please check the requirements information on each project description for full details.
Are there any medical restrictions?
Usually no. However, some projects will require good physical health and the ability to work long hours. Please check the requirements information on each project description for full details. To ensure any medical needs can be accommodated, please mention these in your application and discuss with your Pdg volunteer coordinator during your interview.
Can I volunteer for days or weeks less than one month?
We are proud to be working with sustainable and responsible projects where volunteers can make a real impact. Volunteering for only a couple of days will unfortunately not achieve the level of impact we envision for the organization or in the communities they serve. In some cases, short-term volunteering may disrupt the schedule and objectives of the project. We are dedicated to doing good and causing no harm, therefore expect an absolute minimum time commitment of one month.
Fees & funding
Why do I need to pay to volunteer?
We work hard to keep our costs as low as possible. However, a surprising amount of effort and time goes into every professional volunteer’s placement, before during and after the assignment. This includes: recruitment, selection, matchmaking with our partner organization, ongoing support and guidance both during your stay and in follow up once your project is completed. We also take time to get to know your host organisation to ensure they are ethical and share mutual values. We engage with them throughout your stay to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience for everyone involved.
As a social enterprise, any surplus money will be reinvested in the organization through capacity building workshops and training for the benefit of socially conscious organizations in Cambodia.
What is included in the project cost?
- Recruiting and skill-matching – Assistance and guidance on how to write your CV and perform in your interview.
- Application process – Assistance and guidance on how to prepare the necessary documentation to complete the application.
- Welcome & Introductions – Assistance and guidance related to the organisation of your trip to Cambodia: flights, visas, vaccinations, insurance, accommodation, cost of living, essential items and anything else you will need before you set off.
- Orientation – we pick you up at the airport, provide an orientation tour, offer a cultural induction, assist with the project set up and connect you with any other support you may need to settle in.
- Ongoing in-country support – while volunteering, we will do whatever we can to ensure you will get the most out of your experience (and hopefully love it!:)).
- Professional reference letter – At the completion of your volunteering, we will provide you with a valuable reference to showcase your professional impact whilst here in Cambodia.
Additional inclusions may vary from project to project and are listed in each project position description.
What is not included?
Flights, visas, vaccinations, insurance, accommodation, food, travel & living costs are not included.
How do I pay?
Payments are made through our secure online payment gateway: Paypal. You can use your credit or debit card to make payment.
Can I cancel and be reimbursed ?
You can cancel and have the Pdg project fee fully reimbursed only 90 days before the start date of your project.
All other expenses you may have incurred, including: flight tickets and accommodation, will not be reimbursed by Pdg.
We take your commitment seriously! If you apply and are accepted, but then quit, it will negatively affect your chances of being accepted into a Pdg program in the future. Additionally, please only apply once, if you are not accepted to your first choice we will get in touch to help you find an alternative. We are here to help you!
We invite you to carefully read the Cancellation section in Terms and Conditions.
Pre-departure
Can you help and advise before I travel?
Yes. Guidance and support will be provided once you have been accepted into the program, paid the project fee and submitted all the mandatory documentation. We will issue you log-in access to our online volunteer hub. This section of our site will provide information on your project and you may also be contacted by a Pdg project partner, who will also assist you from beginning to end.
Can you help arrange my flights and travel plans?
Although we are not a travel agency and don’t arrange bookings, our team are more than happy to offer guidance, support and suggestions about where to connect.
Do I need a visa?
Yes, you will need an entry visa. The local laws and regulations tend to vary from time to time. The visa also depends on factors such as your nationality or entry point into the country. To find out more, please visit the Ministry of Tourism websites and your local Cambodian embassy in your country:
Do I need vaccinations?
We recommend you consult with your doctor or travel clinic to ask about recommendations for Cambodia. They will be able to advise you based on your personal health history.
Do I need insurance?
Yes! It is highly recommend that all participants purchase adequate travel insurance to ensure you receive the highest quality care and results possible, should any unfortunate event happen. Some host organizations will not accept professional volunteers unless they have travel and health insurance. Please carefully read the specific requirements in the volunteer project description before you apply.
What is the average cost of living in Cambodia?
It really depends on the quality of living you are looking for. In high season (November to April) costs can double compared to the low season (May-October). Generally speaking, reasonable sized studio or one bedroom apartment with A/C and wifi are available for between $300-$400 USD per month. Cheaper, smaller and more basic options are available for $150-$300. Food costs are far ranging, however usually cost between $10-$20 per day, depending on where and how you like to eat. Please feel free to ask us more about cost of living and any specific needs you may have.
Arrival &
welcome to Cambodia
Will I be met at the airport?
Yes. We offer airport pickup and will take you to your accommodation.
Can I travel before/after my project placement?
Yes, absolutely! Many volunteers choose to travel either side of their placement, either in the project destination or in countries along the route. Taking the time to explore South East Asia is definitely worth it!
How do I get to the project location?
There are several transport options in town, including bicycle and tuk tuk. Our Pdg Project Partner will let you know how to reach the project location when you arrive in town.
Will I have any free time?
Yes, though how much and how long will depend on your placement and project requirements. Feel free to ask us more and discuss your needs.
Safety
How can I find out more about staying safe in Cambodia?
Overall, we advise that you follow the current information and advice from the Government of your own country regarding staying safe abroad. Here are some relevant Government links to foreign travel advice:
United Kingdom
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
United States of America
http://www.state.gov/travel/
Australia
http://smartraveller.gov.au/countries/Pages/default.aspx
How do I know the project isn’t a scam?
Professionals doing good is operated by a well known, responsible and locally respected team. All of our project partners complete a vetting process to ensure you a safe and high-quality experience. We also carefully assess the validity of the project aims and goals. We personally visit the projects on location to see the level of impact being achieved in the local communities. We also believe strongly in transparency throughout all of our processes.
What happens if there is an emergency?
If something happens during your placement, your first point of contact should always be your in-country project partner and we will do our best to contact the emergency numbers you have provided us and help you get in touch with your travel insurance representative. We would like to remind you that any type of emergency MUST be covered by your travel and health insurance. Please carefully read our Terms and conditions .
After my volunteer project is complete
Does Pdg issue a reference letter?
Yes! All participants who successfully complete their placement and submit a brief written report will receive a reference letter issued by your project partner.
Is it possible to secure a job?
Whilst it is possible to get a job with the project after your volunteer placement, this is dependent on availability and needs of the project. Your volunteer project will add to your career progress and valuable fieldwork experience to your CV. You will develop new contacts and learn new skills, all of which will aid you in your search for future employment within your field.