Giving Back: Increasing Employee Volunteerism

Posted by on Apr 1, 2012 in Success!Ezine For You

DR. E. CAROL WEBSTER’S
SUCCESS!EZINE

GIVING BACK: INCREASING EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEERISM

E. Carol Webster, Ph.D.
Original Copyright © 2012

Finding it difficult to get your staff to volunteer in the community these days? With the bad economy, many are moonlighting in their off time to make ends meet. Others are available to give back, but may not be doing so for a number of reasons. There is a psychology to why, when and how individuals give of themselves and their resources. The volunteer activities you promote must meet your staff’s needs too, so if your organization offers volunteer opportunities make sure they tap into these needs:

  • Improve the Community

Many people feel passionately about societal ills and struggles but often can’t figure out how to help. Identify the issues that concern your staff and how they wish to lend a hand. Let them know the specific opportunities offered by the company that they can participate in and how they can make a difference. If you’re giving employees time off to serve in the community, make sure your corporate objectives tap into their needs if you want them to genuinely embrace the activities and to stick with them over the long haul.

  • Personal Promotion

Whether you like it or not, you are in an age where your staff, like many individuals, ask “What’s in it for me?” before they put themselves out. They want to feel valued and to see tangible benefits for donating their time and effort to the company cause. Make the connection very clear. Unlike some who get and stay involved “Because it’s the right thing to do”, many need to have the personal and professional positives spelled out for them before they put much sweat into your organization’s community initiatives.

  • Recognition in the Company

While some employees feel sufficiently rewarded by their volunteerism alone, others expect a public “thank you” for their efforts. Doing so will go far in propelling their continued involvement, so take care to look for ways to acknowledge their contributions ongoing. These don’t have to be elaborate. People just like to see and hear their name, and to know that your firm recognizes their contributions. You may feel frustrated about having to do this, but a variety of egos support your corporate community efforts so don’t forget to stroke them.

These are challenging times and the community greatly appreciates the time and resources of volunteers. Help your staff to get involved and to stay engaged so that they, your company, and society all benefit. It’s a win-win-win for all!

 

 

About the Author:

Dr. E. Carol Webster is a clinical psychologist consultant in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
She is author of the book for those dealing with the stress of success ―
Success Management: How to Get to the Top and Keep Your Sanity Once You Get There,

The Fear of Success: Stop It From Stopping You! ―
the book to help you overcome fears that may be holding you back in your life and career
and
The Private Practice of Clinical Psychology in: Voices of Historical & Contemporary Black American Pioneers
To contact Dr. Webster visit online at https://drcarolwebster.com or call 954.797.9766.

E. Carol Webster, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychology Consulting
Mailing Address: 7027 West Broward Boulevard, #262  Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317
954.797.9766 http://DrCarolWebster.com

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