As the world becomes more socially conscious, business owners are looking for ways to give a helping hand. This becomes more prevalent at this time of year when charity and giving are intertwined with the Christmas season.

Corporate giving can benefit your business by giving back to communities, building a positive culture, fostering employee engagement, and enhancing customer relations. It can benefit your community, employees and customers.

While still mostly seen as financial contribution, corporate giving can also come in the form of volunteering, workplace giving or even setting up corporate foundations or grants.

With many causes, charities and social issues in the world, it can be hard to determine where your corporate giving will be best suited. Keep in mind that your giving program should support your overall brand.

Go back to your Mission

The first step in any business decision is always to go back to your Mission, your Vision, your Why. Look at your core values and if there are causes that will align with these values. Your core values should lead you in all decision making about your business. Find ways of giving that amplify your mission.

Local vs Global

Many of us prefer to give locally as we see the benefit to our own community. If the local community is your target market, then this type of corporate giving aligns well with your business. If, however, you have a larger geographic customer base, consider national or international charities to align better with your audience.

Stick to the Program

Although there are many worthy causes out there, your business cannot contribute to everything. Employees can be a great source of ideas for your corporate giving, just ensure that these ideas align with your brand and values. Pick a certain number of causes to contribute to and stick with them. You, and your employees, can always give personally to additional causes throughout the year.

Be selective

Do some homework on which charities you want to give to and make sure their mission, vision and values align with those of your business. Your employees should already be well and truly on board with your core values and mission, so any causes you choose to support should naturally align with your employees. This will build momentum and workplace morale.

Plan

Once you have decided on your corporate giving, make a plan. Formalize it and document your giving program. Do not forget to include any employee contributions and how your customers can contribute.

Deciding on a corporate giving plan will impact both your local and global community. Share your stories of impact with the community and embrace the idea of working together to make an impact in the world.

"We will thrive together through collaboration, encouragement, and abundance”