Doing Well By Doing Good

Yesterday we wrote about the Boy Scouts and concluded that volunteering to be a Merit Badge Counselor might be a good use of your time.  Ralph Garcia of Ralph's Sew and Vac (Palm Desert, CA)  commented that his membership in the Optimist Club, which raises money for youth programs, has been good for him.  This is what Steven Covey would call a win/win.  You help the organization while making contacts with potential customers. 

But, and this is critical, you can't be seen as someone who's exploiting an association with an organization for personal profit.  People will see through that in a heartbeat and you'll create a negative, rather than a positive, impression. 

If you don't have a sincere desire to help the cause, don't get involved.  Ask yourself, "Would I do this even if there were no potential gain for me?"  If you can't answer with a loud "yes!" find something else to do.

Even if your charity of choice doesn't appear to have anything to do with your business, the value of the time you spend will come back to you, possibly in a very surprising way.  The important thing is to get behind something that you believe in. 

As mentioned here before (5/1/07--Your Chamber of Commerce), your local Chamber of Commerce is an excellent place to offer your services.  After all, you're asking your neighbors to support your business, it's not unreasonable for them to expect you to support them.

However you chose to give back to the community, don't over-commit yourself.  Be sure you have the time to spend.   Just "showing up" won't help you or the organization.  Get involved.  Share your expertise.  Have some fun.  You'll be glad you did.

Comments

[Tash]

I wanted to agree with your comment that there doesn't have to be a direct benefit to your bsuienss for it to be worthwhile to help in the community.

I am a cub leader and enjoy it, but I also get the benefit of being away from a computer (LOL!), talking to different people, thinking of different activities and talking to kids. All of which refreshes me and encourages my creativty which all helps my business and clients.

I'm off to read your merit badge post now as it has caught my attention!