Many New Zealand businesses offer employee benefits, ranging from flexible working hours to wellness programs. Among these benefits, volunteer days are a unique opportunity for companies to engage with their communities. However, when businesses fail to utilise these allocated volunteer days fully, they squander valuable resources that could drive business growth and community impact.
Understanding Volunteer Days
Volunteer days are designated days off that employees can use for community service activities. These days, they are not just a benefit; they are a strategic tool that, when used effectively, can enhance a company’s image, improve employee satisfaction, and positively impact the community. Approximately 55% of companies in New Zealand provide paid volunteer days as part of their benefits package. Yet, studies indicate that many of these days go unused each year. Globally, businesses that actively promote volunteerism see a 25% increase in employee engagement and a 30% improvement in brand perception.
The Cost of Unused Volunteer Days
When volunteer days go unused, businesses miss valuable opportunities. The cost is twofold: companies forfeit the chance to boost their corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile and fail to uplift employee morale. Moreover, communities miss out on potential support and development, creating a sense of urgency and possible loss.
Turning Volunteer Days into Strategic Assets
Aligning Volunteer Activities with Business Goals
Identify Community Needs: Research and identify local community needs that align with your company’s values and goals. This ensures that volunteer efforts are impactful and relevant to your business strategy.
Set Clear Objectives: Define specific, measurable goals for volunteer activities. This may include the number of homes built, meals served, or funds raised.
Promote Employee Engagement: Involve employees in choosing volunteer activities. This participation fosters a sense of ownership and increases participation rates.
Creating a Structured Volunteer Program
Develop a Volunteer Policy: Create a clear volunteer policy outlining the number of days available, the types of activities supported, and how employees can apply.
Equip Employees with Training and Resources: Provide essential training to maximise volunteer efforts. This may include workshops, toolkits, or mentorship programs.
Recognise and Reward Participation: Establish a recognition program to celebrate employees who actively engage in volunteer activities. Rewards can range from public acknowledgment to small tokens of appreciation.
Measuring the Impact:To maximise the benefits of volunteer days, businesses should regularly assess the impact of their efforts. Consider tracking metrics such as employee participation rates, feedback from community partners, and the overall effect on the community.
The Business and Community Benefits and boosting Employee Morale and Retention:Volunteer days can significantly boost employee morale by providing a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Employees who feel valued and engaged are more likely to stay with the company, reducing turnover rates and saving on recruitment costs.
Enhancing Corporate Image:A strong CSR profile enhances a company’s reputation, making it more attractive to potential employees and clients. Businesses that actively engage in community service are often viewed as more trustworthy and responsible.
Strengthening Community Ties: Volunteering helps businesses forge stronger ties with their local communities. These relationships can lead to new partnerships, business opportunities, and a positive brand image.
Transforming Volunteer Days into Growth Opportunities: Volunteer days offer more than just a benefit; they are a strategic asset that can promote business growth and encourage community development. By aligning volunteer activities with business objectives, developing structured programs, and evaluating their impact, businesses can convert unused volunteer days into effective instruments for change.
Reflection and Action Points
What strategies does your business have in place to utilise your volunteer days?
Who takes charge of making the business volunteer days happen?
What community needs to align with your company’s values and goals?
How can local businesses work together to enhance their community service efforts?
If you would like to discuss your CSR goals and strategy, let’s talk.
