Let’s talk about Community Involvement, which is not to be confused with community engagement. Engagement more often refers to social media engagement. NO, today I’m talking about getting off the computer, out into the real world and doing something good for your community.
Community Involvement is about giving back and getting involved in community events and the benefits to your brand can be really positive. Those events are most often of a charitable nature and they include things like sponsoring events, fundraisers, or sports teams. It could be volunteering at a fundraising event or a soup kitchen, or it could be doing some fundraising yourself for a worthy cause.
But why is community involvement beneficial? Because for one, you’ll feel better about yourself but there are branding benefits as well that you should consider and here are 3.
#1 Brand Awareness
As long as your brand is visible and recognizable at the event then you’ve done your job. Think about branded apparel, or banners to help promote your involvement. Sponsorships often involve your brand printed on promotional materials so make sure that you provide a good quality and up to date logo so that you get the most from your sponsorship. I have done a past episode on the importance of brand consistency here in case you need a refresher on the importance of that.
#2 Establish Trust, Credibility, Integrity, etc.
Showing that you care and give back to your community is a perfect way to establish trust and credibility among potential new clients or customers. Not to mention that existing customers like to know and support companies that are doing good things. It just makes everyone feel good.
#3 Networking Opportunities
Getting involved in different charity events is a great way to meet new people. It’s a way to engage with like-minded individuals which could lead to other things. I never pass up a good opportunity for face-to-face networking in the real world.
So consider getting out and supporting a cause that you feel passionate about and help others with your business. It’s a win win, that will have a lasting impact.
With that being said, I too am doing some community involvement, volunteering to shoot photos and videos for The Coldest Night of the Year in Owen Sound on Feb 23rd. This is a fundraiser to help Safe N’ Sound, a community hub, working to end poverty and homelessness. It is a great organization and I have pledged to raise $150 and I need your help. If you would like to support me with a donation, I would be ever so grateful and you can do so by clicking the link here http://walk.w-ith.me/bfresh
Thanks for your support!
