NFIB

Benefits of Volunteering
01/ 31/ 2003

by Vicki Gerson

Volunteering for seasonal events where you help serve food to the homeless at a shelter on Thanksgiving Day or visit a children's hospital in December to help distribute toys are valuable experiences; however, you'll get more out of volunteering if you make it a regular part of your life. From spending time with underprivileged youth to caring for animals in a shelter to delivering meals to the elderly, there are countless opportunities to make a difference in your community.

Not only will you benefit from the positive experience of helping others, but your business will, too. Consider the following ways that volunteering can give your business a boost.

Experience working with many different types of people

When you volunteer, you will meet people from all walks of life and learn to work cooperatively with people holding views that can be quite different from your own. You'll also learn to relate to people in new ways, which can only help your managing skills and customer relations.

A network of contacts

Through your volunteering work, you will meet other community leaders and business owners you might not have come into contact with otherwise.

Leadership skills

If you volunteer on a regular basis, you'll probably be put in charge of various projects. As you manage people other than your employees, you might gain a fresh perspective on your leadership role as a boss and business owner.

Recognition and publicity

Many people who volunteer receive awards for their work. Most often, they also receive free publicity because the award was presented at an event and covered by the local media. When they mention you, they'll mention your business, too.

New customers

People like to support those who do good for others. Don't be surprised if you find your fellow volunteers--as well as their friends and families--frequenting your business.

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