Cydcor - Face to Face Sales

Whether it’s donating money, talent or time, companies of all sizes have the opportunity to make a positive difference for their employees and in the communities in which they live and work. For some businesses, doing good works in the community is an extension of a giving corporate culture, or of just doing well. Others are also getting involved out of necessity as more companies are being judged by partners, vendors, investors or customers by their activism and commitment to social responsibility.

Not only can participating in philanthropic endeavors benefit organizations in need and your company’s profile, but it can have a positive effect on employees – and even your bottom line.

Approximately 73 percent of U.S. workers say they are more committed to their company because of the company’s support of employee volunteerism, according to a recent study by Cone Inc. and RoperASW. Higher loyalty can lead to lower turnover costs, higher productivity and stronger relationships between staff and clients. Businesses may even be able to used charitable donations as a tax-write off.

Society trends indicate there’s a growing need to integrate career, family and social responsibility. Now, more than ever, there’s an expectation that employers help staff make positive contributions to society. Developing a philanthropy program for your company can also help recruit and retain talented employees. Approximately 62 percent of Gen Y employees prefer to work for companies that provide volunteer opportunities, according to Deloitte & Touche’s Volunteer IMPACT survey (2007).

Companies may choose causes in line with management philosophies, goals, corporate traditions or mission. At the same time, companies may give employees the option to choose charities that resonate with their own values or interests.

Your company’s community involvement extends beyond the bottom line and makes people feel good by doing what’s right. Though difficult to measure the direct impact on your company’s profit or reputation, consider the long-term influence and intangible benefit that corporate giving and volunteerism instills in your company’s people. Improving morale among employees and building relationships with community members is likely to lead your business’ success.

Corporate philanthropy can take many forms. Begin a volunteer program where employees can donate time on their company’s clock to a chosen cause. Identify a charity and donate money or time. Plan a day for management to spend time working together toward a good cause. For a day, trade a team builder’s office tools for paint brushes or serving utensils.

For example, our company implemented “Cydcor Cares Volunteer Day,” an internal program that encourages team members to give back to the communities that support them. We also donate time and money to chosen charities.

Creating a corporate philanthropy program can benefit a company by:

• Increasing employee satisfaction and loyalty.
• Appealing to potential employees and retaining current employees.
• Creating an alternative arena to build and strengthen employee management skills and responsibilities.
• Elevating your company’s reputation.
• Strengthening relationships within your community.
• Improving the health and quality of your community.

People carry these values and other personal work experiences with them throughout their lives. The benefit extends beyond the time at your company, increasing the experience’s impact on each employee.

Becoming conscientious of community involvement and strengthening your business with a growing roster of responsible employees is a win-win situation for all parties. While contributing to good causes keeps people happy, investing time and money in your own backyard is the best way to give back to the community that supports your company. A healthy society generates a prosperous business environment. Your community is the foundation of your business – don’t forget to take care of it.

Editor’s Note: Jim Majeski is President of California-based Cydcor Inc., the largest face- to-face customer acquisition company in North America.