The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others. ~Albert Schweitzer
What can you for your employees that helps them develop their leadership skills AND enhances your company’s image? Here’s a hint: this practice attracts and retains millennials, boosts morale and increases profitability.
The answer? Giving back!
Because the lines between our personal and professional lives are becoming increasingly blurred, the way employees judge an organization is experiencing a massive transformation. Think about it. The millennial generation has never NOT known recycling. This group, which now makes up the largest percentage of your employees, is concerned about taking care of the planet and they want to contribute to a mission that is bigger than they are. Millennials, as well as younger Gen x-ers are turning to their employers to provide more purpose in their work life so they can make a difference in their community and around the world.
There are many ways that corporations are giving back. “Dollars for Doers” is a good example of a corporate giving plan. Participating companies provide grants to nonprofits where their employees and recent retirees volunteer on a regular basis. Many of these organizations offer their team members paid time off to volunteer to their chosen cause.
Causecast is a technology company that connects companies and their employees with the charities they care about. Using an app, Causecast provides an efficient means to set up, manage and track workplace giving and volunteering programs. You can learn more at Causecast.com
As for the personal benefits to employees? Volunteering makes you healthier. A Corporation for National & Community Service report noted: “Those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer.”
Here are three tips to SERVE your team:
- Show you care. Employees want to know that they mean more to you than an employee ID number and a weekly paycheck. When you allow them to make a difference to the greater good, you build loyalty to your organization.
- Share the responsibility. Let your employees choose the causes that resonate most with them. This is not about a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Your team members want to roll up their sleeves and play a tangible and active role in the project. Let them.
- Support sincerely. Don’t use this as an opportunity to check a box because you think you’re supposed to. Choose causes that are a good fit for your people and your organization.
Giving back not only helps your team members feel better about themselves, they are prouder to work for you!
