In recent years, businesses are becoming more dependent on technology, and as a result their workforce inherently needs a higher level set of skills. Educated millennials that are seeking employment today are looking for companies which help them find a sense of purpose. They generally want to be challenged and are optimistic and autonomous. In order to entice high caliber employees from this younger generation, organizations are learning that corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs are granting them a fantastic return on investment.
Workplace giving programs have become less about how much money an organization can donate, but rather the quality of the time they’re donating. Workplace supported volunteer programs are a benefit to employees looking to find a higher purpose in their work.
Here are 5 reasons companies should adopt Workplace Giving Programs that support volunteerism:
1. Recruiting Better Employees
Recruiting young, fresh talent can be easier said than done with so many graduates entering the workforce with degrees but no concrete experience. Hiring is an expensive, time consuming process, and if the wrong candidate is chosen, there can be serious implications for the company. The numbers don’t lie; according to a study, 86% of millennial employees would consider leaving if their employer’s CSR program failed to meet their expectations, and 88% gravitated toward companies with pronounced CSR programs. The best CSR programs entail getting employees out of their seats and on their feet helping others.
2. Professional Development
Hands-on experience is the best way to learn a new skill, and becoming involved with an organization can enable employees to gather skills for their personal development. More well-rounded employees foster a better company culture. By giving them time to experience this level of learning, employees can feel less pressured to find those opportunities outside of work, which can make them less productive.
3. Engage the Local Community
With so much time spent at work on a given week, it can be difficult to fully emerge yourself into all that your community has to offer. Getting out there and meeting the faces of your neighbors not only creates an opportunity to raise awareness about your company, but it also can help employees feel a more connected sense of purpose.
4. Enhanced Morale
People feel better when they are being motivated by the idea that what they’re doing is helping to serve a purpose that’s bigger than themselves. By interweaving the company’s mission with a broader goal to help the global or local community, employees can feel that they are contributing to that mission while volunteering. This also gives employees a time and place to interact outside of work and can double as productive team building. Studies also show that volunteering decreases stress levels.
5. Impactful Investing
Your company’s CSR plan is in place to ensure that your profits are being realized in a sustainable, positive way without negative externalities. When implemented correctly, businesses see how their practices influence their employees to be more engaged, and thus work more efficiently. This plan is a win-win as it helps all stakeholders involved. When companies are engaged locally, it is not uncommon that news outlets cover the events, which can be a source of free publicity to entice new clients and customers.
Dr. Barbara Edwards Princeton is an internist with a passion for volunteering and living your healthiest life.