The Business Benefits of a Social Conscience
Should your business have a social conscience?
After all, you’re not there to save the world. You’re there to build a company, make profits, provide employment, and be successful. What does a social conscience have to do with all that?
The truth is, businesses are made up of people and we all form part of the community. A business isn’t a separate entity that can exist in isolation, driven only by the goal of making profits. Ask your employees if your company should support a charity and most will agree: “Yes, it’s a good idea. It’s the right thing to do.” Ask them if you should help people achieve their full potential and you’ll no doubt get the same positive response.
The Business Benefits of a Social Conscience
Okay, being a small business owner is hectic enough—why on earth would you give yourself more to do? Here are some reasons why businesses give back to the community, and how working with a charity can benefit both your company and you personally:
- It builds your reputation: Supporting a charity or cause enhances your public image. Consumers and potential customers respect businesses that contribute beyond just providing jobs and services.
- Improving your community: By contributing to your local area, you help make it a better place to live, which ultimately benefits everyone, including your business.
- Boosting team morale: Nothing motivates a team like working together for a good cause. Supporting a local charity can increase morale and lead to greater productivity in other areas.
- Raising your profile: Getting your wider network involved in charity fundraising can amplify your efforts, raise more funds and increase your visibility among your peers.
- Personal satisfaction: Don’t underestimate the fulfilment you’ll gain from helping others. That warm, fuzzy feeling is very real and incredibly rewarding.
Many businesses and leaders give back simply because it feels good, not necessarily because they expect it to boost profits or improve brand reputation. The personal satisfaction and sense of fulfilment often outweigh any material benefits.
The Last Hurdle Gives Back
At The Last Hurdle, we’re proud to give back to our community. Each year, we support a local charity by donating our marketing services. The Lighthouse Centre, which provides holistic therapies to people with long-term health conditions, is one of the organisations we’ve worked with, helping local people through difficult times.
I also give talks to Northampton Saints Hitz, a programme supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, and we offer work placements through organisations like local colleges and The Princes Trust.
While these efforts directly help those involved, they also positively impact our team. Our staff love being part of initiatives that support young people, taking part in our annual charity events and contributing to the wider community. It’s not just about business for us—it’s about giving back, having fun and making a difference.
Why Your Business Should Have a Social Conscience
Businesses can often achieve far more than individuals when it comes to making a difference. They can help raise awareness, provide support, offer training and give opportunities to those who need them. Having a social conscience isn’t just a nice idea—it’s something we all have an obligation to embrace.
So, should your business have a social conscience? The definitive answer is yes. It’s good for your business, good for team morale, good for the community and good for you. Perhaps the real question is:
