Chances are, you are selling your products and services in the same place that your business is located. So it makes sense to get out every once in a while and give back to the people who live and work in the same community in which your business operates.
In this step to Building a Better Business, your aim is to find a way to give back to your community, by participating in, or creating a community service project.
An easy way to find out what community service projects may be available is by contacting local neighborhood associations and non-profits in the city where your business is located. National organizations like United Way, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, and The Red Cross are other sources of community involvement activities. If you want to create your own community service activity, look around the area your business is located in and try to get a feel for what the community is like, what people who live there are interested in or concerned about, and ways your business could address those concerns through your existing products and services. Or, even better, find a nearby school, church, or civic organization or non-profit that you can provide products and services to for free or for a reduced cost. Participating on the boards of those organizations is another great way to give back.
By giving back to the community, you’re not only doing something that feels good, you’re also doing something that makes you and your business look good. Plus, you’re in the perfect position to establish relationships with other people who live in, work in, or care about the surrounding community. So be sure to talk to others, bring plenty of business cards, and always wear your company paraphernalia.
photo by Muffet (Flickr)
