If the Beatles can, “get by with a little help from my friends,” so can strangers.
- Volunteer. You can begin at your child’s or neighborhood school. Do more than attend a neighborhood event.
- Help. Many companies have service days where they choose a charity to help for the day. Volunteer your business. Your company is now more visible to the community since the event is often written in community papers and newsletters. It’s a win-win.
- Community organizations and non-profits can use your assistance. Choose your favorite charity(ies) and offer to help with a fundraising campaign, event or daily task. Help from caring friends is always welcome.
- Be a mentor. Offer to help someone new to your field. You cannot be at the top of your game forever. Everyone needs someone to help get him or her to the next level. Think about the people who helped you. Take a new college graduate or business owner under your wings. Contact them on a regular basis. Take them to lunch or dinner as time permits. We are never too far ahead in our careers to help along someone else.
- Serve on a non-profit or professional organization’s board. Many non-profit organizations can use your help. Boards are the people who set the policies for these organizations. Many non-profits cannot operate without board members. Volunteer your expertise to an organization for which you have passion. Many large non-profits (like hospitals) and for-profit businesses pay board members for their time and expertise.
- Become the president. When asked to assume leadership of an organization, accept the challenge. It always looks good on your resume and shows your leadership initiative.
- Not yet ready for the presidency? Serve in other leadership capacities such as vice-president, secretary or treasurer. Your service is always needed.
- Speak. Professional organizations are always searching for speakers to present at their monthly or weekly meetings. Search your industry for local opportunities with colleges and universities, Kiwanis Clubs, and business and human services organizations.
- Teach. Those who know, teach. With many junior and community colleges, you may need a bachelors or masters degree to teach a class in your field. It’s a great way to be more visible, and an opportunity for you to continue to stay current in your industry.
- Give something away. Everyone likes a sale. However, they love that four-letter word “free” even better. Give away items that have your company logo, website and phone number. Be creative. Step beyond the cup and pen. Can you think of other items?
- Offer to give items as “bag stuffers” at events. Call your local visitors and convention bureau and find out what convention is scheduled.
- Mail them to potential customers.
- Criticize. Constructively. When you have an opportunity to help someone (instead of tearing them down), your comments or suggestions are often appreciated.