How HR can use charitable giving to boost office morale

Employers are taking an increasing interest into the happiness of their employees and the overall workplace morale. Attempts to promote a happy working environment have seen an increase in initiatives and social events, one initiative that has become popularised is the introduction of business led charitable giving. Many employers are now acknowledging the benefits of charitable giving as a way of garnering a positive image for themselves whilst having a similarly positive impact on their employees’ morale.

Employers who take part in charitable giving are likely to be held in particularly high regard by workers that are part of ‘Generation Y’; those born between 1980-1994 who are referred to as ‘millennials’. Deloitte’s 2017 ‘Global Millennial Survey’ revealed these individuals actively look for opportunities to be involved with good causes and philanthropic activity which provides them with a greater feeling of influence. Therefore, employers who provide opportunities for their staff to be active participants in positive social change will be rewarded with a more content and happy workforce. This will ultimately have a positive impact on the performance of the business, whilst ensuring they stand out as an attractive employer to young talent.

HR can introduce charitable giving in the form of team activities at work, including fancy dress days; baking competitions; sports events and quizzes. These activities often require a group of individuals participating together cultivating a sense of camaraderie and positivity between colleagues. By organising team based charity activities, HR will cultivate a positive and inclusive culture amongst employees, fostering strong relationships which will further boost morale.

In order to solidify a strong link with charitable giving, HR may wish to select a partner charity. This charity could be a smaller local charity which would allow employees to feel they are having a positive impact on their local community, or a larger wider reaching charity which employees may be more aware of. Employers in specific industries may consider working with charities that are related to their respective industry as this holistic approach may resonate strongly with their staff.

A committee made up of staff who are responsible for organisation charitable initiatives can be established by HR. Having a dedicated committee will ensure any charity initiatives are engaging and successful, whilst ensuring those on the committee benefit from a sense of responsibility and gratification. As the success of charitable giving initiatives are largely down to the participation of employees it would be wise to involve them as much as possible with any decisions.