It is just good business to give back to the community or industry you serve, don’t you agree?
Not only does volunteering of your time and talents help the organization, it allows for you to learn about a new industry, meet fresh faces, and showcase your area of expertise.
Getting involved in a cause that speaks to you and aligns with your personal brand can also help boost your business’ brand image.
Specifically, in the marketing, advertising and public relations industries, there are many local, non-profit organizations that are looking for volunteers to help generate awareness, create networking mixers, promote educational programs, share tools and resources, and further their chapter’s mission.
Here are the top three industries:
- The American Marketing Association – Inland Empire Chapter (AMA-IE) http://ama-ie.com/
I am the 2014-2015 Communications Chair for the AMA-IE, where I offer my creative services in the areas of: E-marketing, Social Marketing and Public Relations.
- The American Advertising Federation – Inland Empire Chapter (AAF-IE) http://aafie.wordpress.com/
- The Public Relations Society – Inland Empire Chapter (PRSA-IE) http://www.prsaie.org/
Previously I served 6+ years as President, Vice-President and Programs Chair for the AAF-IE, and sat on a committee in sponsorship for the PRSA-IE, which provided invaluable experience and connections.
Sound interesting?
Consider a committee role first, before jumping in too deep with a chairperson position.
Choose a role in which you have had experience with or if you have an interest or passion for a particular area such as: membership, sponsorship, event planning, college relations, administrative, treasurer and more.
With volunteering, you will gain a deeper knowledge about the inner-workings of a board of directors, help problem-solve, think creatively and become a team player, all while having fun and making connections. In the end, you should feel good about contributing.
Volunteering not only helps shape a professional career; but also can help build brand equity by positioning your business in a positive light as you seek to improve your community and add value.
Outside of your business and business interests, volunteering for a cause that pulls on your heartstrings and speaks to you personally–i.e. animal-welfare, child-welfare, the homeless – will reflect positively on your brand if done with authentic intentions and integrity. Personal interests show a “human-touch” in your business and can reassure customers, strengthening your position in the community.
Ultimately, if you feel a calling, you owe it to yourself to explore the rewards you’ll gain personally, professionally and to enhance your brand image.
Let us know where you serve!