Volunteering and the Workplace

As individuals grow in their careers and become more involved in their workplace communities, they often discover the multifaceted benefits of volunteering. Participating in various corporate social responsibility initiatives not only allows employees to see the impact of their contributions on others but also provides them with a sense of purpose and well-being. This "helper's high," as it's often called, is a result of the brain releasing endorphins during acts of service, leading to reduced stress levels and improved mood.

Employees realize that real change is possible, both in their communities and within themselves. The initial hesitation and self-doubt that may have held them back give way to a sense of accomplishment and personal growth. They find themselves surrounded by colleagues who are on the same journey of professional and personal development through service, strengthening team bonds and improving workplace relationships in ways that extend beyond project deadlines and performance reviews.

As individuals continue to volunteer, they become more comfortable with their roles and learn to accept their limitations. This process of self-discovery and skill development in a low-pressure environment contributes significantly to their professional growth. They extend understanding to others and themselves, embodying the empathy that is crucial in a diverse workplace. The enthusiasm they feel for their volunteer activities often spills over into their regular job duties, reinvigorating their passion for primary responsibilities and helping to prevent burnout.

Growth in civic engagement leads employees to identify new opportunities to help others as they have been helped. They see volunteering as more than just an act of social responsibility; it becomes a form of self-care and a path to enhanced job satisfaction. Becoming more active in various company-sponsored programs and community outreach initiatives allows individuals to step outside their usual roles and utilize different skills. This change of pace can be refreshing, providing a new perspective on work and often highlighting the positive impact their company has beyond its business objectives.

Employees begin to see their jobs as more than just sources of income, but as platforms for positive change. This shift in perspective can significantly boost overall job satisfaction and commitment to their organizations. They become more sensitive to the social and environmental needs around them, striving to be agents of positive change in their communities. As management expert Peter Drucker noted: "The best way to predict the future is to create it."

Even those who have known an employee for a long time begin to notice changes. They may be skeptical at first, but the genuine desire to contribute and the positive energy brought back to the workplace spark their interest. Those who knew the individual before their commitment to volunteering develop a curiosity about the new dedication and the visible benefits it brings to their professional and personal lives.

Sometimes, however, volunteering can feel forced. Employees may feel obligated because they don't want to let their team down or because they seek recognition. This recognition might take the form of public praise or an expectation of career advancement. Either way, individuals feel disappointed if their efforts go unnoticed. Consider the example of an employee who faithfully organized the company's annual charity drive for years without public acknowledgment. At their retirement, they received a plaque with a misspelled "thank you for your dedcation." Yet, they didn't volunteer for recognition but out of a genuine desire to make a difference and for the personal fulfillment it brought them.

How is your attitude toward workplace volunteering? Do you feel resentment or obligation? Do you secretly seek recognition? Or do you feel the intrinsic rewards of giving back? If you are struggling to find joy in volunteering, pause and examine your motivations. Sharing feelings with trusted colleagues or mentors can be helpful. Allowing time for reflection to find a place where you can contribute joyfully, even without recognition, is important. As Anne Frank said: "No one has ever become poor by giving."

Organizations can foster a spirit of volunteerism that flows from genuine enthusiasm, not from compulsion. When employees align their volunteer efforts with personal values and interests, they're more likely to experience the full range of benefits, from improved mental health to enhanced job satisfaction. Striving to be cheerful volunteers benefits not just the company's bottom line, but the well-being and productivity of its employees, as business leader Richard Branson said, "Doing good is good for business."

About Me

I am originally from the Caribbean (the twin island republic of Trinidad and Tobago). I have lived in Houston, Texas for the past 20 years. I am a Petroleum Engineer who has worked in various technical and corporate roles for the past 32 years with increasing levels of responsibility.

I am also Master’s level Mental Health Clinician who is currently pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education. As a Licensed and Board Certified Therapist, I have the mind of an engineer and the heart of a counselor.

You can find out more about me here: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/mphatso-khoza-the-woodlands-tx/974678.

Feel free to book a free consultation with me.