1. Gain Positive Recognition Within Southwest Houston
Take into account the businesses that are helping institutions where you live. The companies that value the loyalty from their clients tend to be widely known for sponsoring kids’ sports teams and as a helping hand for schools and civic clubs, organizations who need all the funds they can get during fundraising season.
Not only do business owners feel good offering their support to customers and their community alike, but the public can’t help but acknowledge their kind efforts, a reward that can often generate more revenue for said caring businesses.
Aside from the obvious perks, another great impact of donating to local hospitals, libraries, colleges, and other essential or social services revolves around making where you do business better for all people--not just for your loved ones, but also for your dedicated employees and loyal customers. Look at it as a win-win for everyone.
2. Attract the Right Team Members
Being more present in your community will allow your business to attract the special kind of talent. People are naturally drawn to respectable companies when they’re looking for work, and if your brand has a positive reputation for helping others in need, you just might attract like-minded applicants.
The same can apply to the customer side. Customers who are more selective about who they buy their goods and services from would rather pay a bit more to help a small business who is giving back than invest in something from a large corporation with a headquarters out of town.
3. Develop Networking Connections Across Houston (And Beyond)
It doesn’t matter if you decide to offer your time or financial support; either way, you will be given the chance to get to know other donors. It is oftentimes the most successful that partake in charitable work, and acting in kind is your easy way to build connections with any other business owners who could potentially be the key to helping your business grow as well.
Take advantage of these networking opportunities by searching for charitable events such as golf tournaments and galas. Boards or committees are also good places to find mutual values and professional relationships.
4. Bring Fresh Content to Incorporate Into Your Social Media & Other Marketing Endeavors
We know how pivotal it is to put up daily content on our social media platforms, but sometimes it can take a lot to constantly look for the right images, news, and information.
If you and your team join in community charities and events, you can expect nothing less than quality content for everyday or weekly posts.
Display your support for local causes by volunteering or donating, along with sharing updates on their upcoming events, fundraising goals, and activities. And don’t forget to post shots of you and your team in action. This will let others see your business as one that always gives back.
5. It Will Feel Good to Give Back
Giving back makes us feel good, both psychologically and physiologically. A study from Wall Street Journal on charitable giving points out that the section of the brain that manages cravings and pleasure rewards turned bright when they chose to donate to a worthy cause.
According to the Science of Giving: An Experimental Approach to the Study of Charity, there are a few ways to raise your level of contentment through generosity like:
- Showing support to causes that make out tangible results similar to your goals.
- Donating smaller portions more often (e.g. kids’ sports teams or school fundraisers). This will help you and your team feel like you’re making more of a difference rather than sending out one single large check a year.
- Giving without getting anything back (e.g. free advertising, a free water bottle, or a free T-shirt).
