As a business owner, you are probably familiar with the plethora of ways that businesses raise money for charity. While some opt for more traditional methods like fundraising events, others make use of modern technology with online donations. While these options can be quite useful when you need to make money fast, it is best to look at the bigger picture. Philanthropy programs consist of charitable giving to human causes but on a larger scale. While charities tend to be short-term and focused primarily on relief, philanthropy is based on strategic long-term growth for the betterment of society.
Today, many businesses both big and small create philanthropy programs in the workplace designed to give back to their local communities, strengthen relationships with local non-profits, and boost employee engagement. If you are considering starting a philanthropy program in your own workplace, consider the following key benefits:
1. Develop a Good Reputation
Starting and continuing a philanthropy program in the workplace is an excellent way to develop a good reputation within your community. Running a business means more than just focusing on your bottom line. To be successful in the long-term, you must be willing to engage with other businesses in your area and be ready to give back in a way that benefits your customers and their families. When you have an established business that others can trust, you can lean on other organizations and form mutually beneficial relationships with prominent businesses and community members.
When businesses are willing to help others, people are more willing to support the company in exchange. It can take time to develop a good reputation, especially if your business is new or just starting to see growth. By initiating a philanthropy program in your workplace, you are showing your staff and the community that you want to do your part to help other people. In short, a philanthropy program can demonstrate ethical responsibility and show that you are not just concerned about making a profit. In turn, your employees will likely develop a more ethical mindset which may show in their work.
2. Attract New Talent
Having a known philanthropy program in the workplace is a sure-fire way to attract new talent, especially millennials who have become a driving force behind charitable giving. When searching for a new career, many job hunters look at what benefits an organization has to offer, as well as how they could possibly make a difference in their job. Philanthropic programs have been found successful in recruiting talented employees as many candidates are more likely to work for an organization that is committed to their community. Workers who find that they are able to make a difference often discover greater job satisfaction and overall happiness.
Many businesses continue with their daily obligations while giving little thought as to how they can make a greater impact on their employees and their community as a whole. This way of thinking can result in an increase in employee turnover rates and a reduction in customers due to poor consumer engagement. By being a positive force in your community, you can gain the respect of your employees who will also be more motivated to work for you. You will also likely discover greater morale among your staff.
3. Boost Your Marketing Efforts
Philanthropy programs in the workplace are an effective way to make connections and expand your professional network. By getting involved with various types of charities and causes, you are putting your business into direct contact with new people and companies that could potentially help your business grow and thrive. Maintaining these connections can be invaluable, especially for new companies who may need help making a name for themselves. Philanthropy programs can open up a world of new and interesting opportunities, including the ability to make valuable contributions to people in your local area.
There are so many different avenues businesses can take in regards to marketing. With the rapid growth of the internet, it has never been easier to get your company name out there and promote your services. However, there is also greater competition than there has ever been. To make your brand stand out against the rest, you need to show that you are different. Promoting your philanthropy program on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can help you distinguish yourself as an ethical leader while also attracting new clients. Of course, promoting your program can also help any charities you may be working with.
4. Do Good in Your Community
Among the most important benefit of starting a philanthropy program in your workplace is to better your community. Charitable contributions can have countless advantages designed to help the public and their surroundings. Your business’s charitable donations can give needy children food, shelter, and a safe place to learn and play. You may choose to donate to medical facilities or labs who are performing research and testing to cure disease. Other types of charities to consider include disaster relief, human rights, conservation, or the support of students and teachers.
When setting up a philanthropy program, consider what type of charity you would like to work with. It is best to try and align a charity with the mission of your business. For example, if you run a pet salon, you may want to work with an animal welfare or wildlife conservation organization. When you have a philanthropy program that you are really passionate about, it will show through your work and motivate your employees. Donating to an important cause has the potential to alter your work culture and business in a positive way while also making your community a better place to live.
Learn More About Philanthropy Programs
As we’ve seen, philanthropy programs can benefit both businesses and communities in a variety of ways. Charity contributions can improve brand image, increase productivity, boost employee morale, and create a positive reflection on your company. For more information about the benefits of philanthropy programs in the workplace, contact Business Benefits Group online today. Feel free to also learn more about BBG’s philanthropy program, GiveBack.