Generosity is giving what you have to help others succeed without expecting anything in return. Acts of generosity foster selflessness, build trust and increase unity in corporate relationships. In a recent survey, 78% of employees said working in a culture that supports giving and volunteering is imperative. Giving Tuesday presented an opportunity to focus on extending generosity toward your co-workers, clients, and potential candidates. As you practice giving back, below are four reasons why generosity is important in a professional environment.
1. Generosity Unifies Employees
When you focus on generosity, your workplace becomes a hub for strengthening employee bonds. If you are looking for ways to unite the people in your office, consider asking them what charities or local events they would like to support. You can volunteer as a group, host a company fundraiser, or vote on financial support. Allowing employees to give input on where you extend generosity is a great way to unify your company values with your employees’ values.
2. Generosity Improves Leadership
If you are a business owner, you are the thermometer of your company; you set the temperature of generosity. Leaders who are generous with their time and resources inspire employees. The best leaders look for ways to improve themselves and their company. If your employees see you giving your time by listening to their feedback, they are more likely to trust you. When there is mutual giving and receiving of feedback between managers and employees, it makes for a much more enjoyable partnership.
3. Generosity Builds Relationships
Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Perhaps the most crucial focus in the corporate world is building relationships. Spending time and effort getting to know clients and colleagues shows that you are genuine and trustworthy. Prioritizing relationships will lead to establishing strong partnerships with your internal and external clients and colleagues.
4. Generosity Opens Doors
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season can cause us to miss opportunities for generosity. When we slow down, we can identify ways to encourage others. Expressing a simple compliment to a co-worker can motivate them to complete a vital project. Extending a generous internship offer can open doors for you to champion young professionals. You never know how your generosity can impact the people around you.
Extending generosity toward others will foster trust and unity in your corporate relationships. This week, Giving Tuesday gives us an opportunity to focus on practicing selflessness by seeking to serve others.
