Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is becoming more important to candidates (especially Millennials) and consumers in their choice of companies to work for and buy from. According to a 2013 study by Cone Communications and Echo research, 82% of U.S. consumers consider a company’s approach to social good when making a purchase. Although some may think that only the “big guys” are in a position to make a difference, there are a number of ways that small companies can – and should – give back to their communities. Here are some ideas.
Sponsor a charity. Involve employees in selecting a charity to contribute to on an annual or semi-annual basis. Designate an amount to contribute, and encourage employees to add to the amount with their own contributions. If the charity has volunteer opportunities, encourage employees to volunteer individually or as a team.
Match employee contributions to their charities of choice. Designate an amount up to which the company will match employee contributions to their favorite nonprofit. This encourages giving, and helps a variety of organizations.
Give employees time off to volunteer. Allow a certain number of hours per month or per quarter for employees to volunteer for their favorite nonprofit. Some companies also provide a dollar match to the hours volunteered to the charity organization.
Organize a team volunteer event. Some of the best team building is done when employees are working together for a good cause. This is also an opportunity to build skills. Put someone who is not in a leadership role in charge of the event. Put someone else in charge of communications. Build collaboration by letting the team research and decide on the organization they will help.
Giving back is good for the community, good for employees, and good for business. Research shows that companies who give back to their communities have better brand visibility, more highly-engaged employees and stronger relationships with their customers. A study by Ernst & Young and the Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund found that of entrepreneurs who give back, 62% say it makes their companies more successful in the long run.
December 1 is “Giving Tuesday.” How will you give back this year?