Getting involved in your community is a really good thing for you to do on a personal level. And without really trying, it can be good for your business too.
Are you the type of business person who goes home after work and shuts the door, not to emerge again until morning, or do you get out and volunteer? Do you realize that when you give to the community, the community will give back to you?
There are lots of opportunities to contribute to your community. You can volunteer at an event, donate some hours to a charitable organization, sit on a board or a committee. No matter how you donate your time, you are doing a good thing and are out meeting people. And the more people you know, the better it is for you and your business.
As a business person, especially if your job is sales-related, your network is crucial. When you sit on a board or a committee, you are actually building your network. These people may never need your product or service, but they certainly know someone who will. Plus, the organization you are volunteering for will feel obligated to work with you as well.
Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not being crass or insensitive, it’s reality. I’m not saying to volunteer strictly for the purpose of getting new business, but it does happen. People do business with people they know. Volunteer for the right reasons and you never know what opportunities will arise.