I am fully invested in the community in which Brigade Bookkeeping operates. I care tremendously about what happens here and have a genuine interest in playing a role to help our community thrive.
Do you feel the same way? Or, do you want to become more involved with your community? I know from personal experience, that not only would it bring you joy, you’d be tapping into something that’s important to your long-term success.
Involvement matters
“Whether it’s by sponsoring or taking part in community programs, or by enabling employee volunteerism, companies that encourage involvement in the community stand out among their peers and see multiple benefits as a result, such as a happier workforce or a more loyal customer base,” notes the Forbes Human Resource Council.
One study found that 82% of consumers consider social responsibility/community involvement when deciding where to spend their money on a product or a service.
Getting involved
Here are 5 ideas to boost your business’ community involvement:
- Serve on a community board. You have many to choose from, including art and park councils. If you’re a member of a professional organization, you may find board opportunities with local impact. I am a proud Trustee for the FICPA Scholarship Foundation Board. We’ve also committed to a $50,000 endowment fund in the name of Brigade Bookkeeping for well deserving and qualified accounting students in the State of Florida. Our involvement helps us shape future generations of CPAs.
- Sponsor an event or group. From the local walk-a-thon to the school orchestra, nonprofits are frequently seeking financial support.
- Host a tour. When I was a kid, some of the best school days were field trip days! If your worksite offers tours, or you can teach valuable skills to future professionals, consider offering your time or an opportunity for the community to see what you do.
- Join a volunteer organization for professionals. If you would like to get involved with several good causes while networking with other local professionals, an organization like Rotary International could be for you.
- Volunteer as a company. From shelters to food banks to boys & girls clubs, there are countless opportunities. Looking for ideas? Try reaching out to an organization like Hands on Miami, where they help develop meaningful service experiences for businesses looking to make a difference locally.
Make it a full-circle mission
Speaking of community, don’t forget to:
- Involve your employees. What are their ideas? What organizations are they already a part of? Would your company be able to contribute donations, financial help or time to their favorite non-profit causes?
- Acknowledge the achievements of others. The causes you help, the organizations you join, and the community leaders you meet will most likely have social media pages. Use your business channels to give shout-outs for their work, and share their content on your pages.
Community involvement has a tangible business impact. As you support your community, you’re simultaneously building relationships and boosting visibility and brand awareness.