October 2004 Focus on Customer Service

Over the years, many companies have recognized the value and importance of giving back to their community. Benefits to feed the homeless, charity auctions, etc. all serve to help the community, and often have a positive impact on the participating companies, either in improved morale or increased exposure.

Small businesses, with tighter profit margins, need not shy away from participating in good will activities. The following ideas can be affordable and mutually beneficial for smaller companies and their communities:

• Recycle office equipment by donating used computers, chairs or desks to service organizations
  
• Donate products or services to nonprofit organizations. If the service organization you wish to assist needs more than you can donate, offer them a reduced rate. Or, if your products are too expensive to donate entirely, consider selling them to the organization at cost.
  
• Volunteer your time and ask your employees to participate with paid time off. This not only can benefit the community, but raise morale and team spirit among your employees.
  
• Participate in an existing fund raiser or charity collection by offering to be a drop-off site. This gives people first-hand exposure to your business and employees.
  
• Donate cash. If your company can only give a small amount, choose a local organization where that money would make a large impact, maximizing your "community-minded" exposure.