It’s always a great idea for a brand to stand for something – not just quick customer service or yummy food but another purpose and mission that aligns with its core values. Brands doing it right are finding ways to tie into issues relevant to today’s world to help to make life better. Supporting a social cause not only has the obvious benefit to society but also wins loyal fanhood with millennials – something that every brand wants to do.
Here are three tips to help your brand start giving back:
1. Find a mission that makes sense.
If your brand is going to work towards a mission, find a cause that aligns with your values. This will help your brand elevate its message and work toward something your employees are already passionate about. If you’re a food brand, maybe your mission is to help feed children in impoverished areas. If you’re a clothing brand, there are many ways you can get involved with donating clothing items to homeless shelters or collaborating with fair trade textile groups. For example, Nike helps collect and repurpose old tennis shoes, which are then turned into “Nike Grind,” a material used for playground surfaces. For every item sold, ClotheOhio provides a t-shirt or sweatshirt to an Ohioan in need.
2. Get your employees involved.
The millennial generation is always looking for ways to give back. Studies have found that millennials like buying from and working for companies that give back and are involved with their communities. Ben and Jerry’s is well-known for its great marketing missions on social, and this week announced its newest effort, “Democracy is In Your Hands.” Employees love to feel like they’re a part of a bigger mission and that giving back plays a major role in what they work towards as a company.
3. Offer money, time or a service.
Brands can head the traditional route and donate money to organizations or social causes of their choice, but it’s become increasingly popular for employees of brands to donate a portion of their time each year to giving back or providing pro bono services. For example, our team here at Belle Communications provides PR support to Freedom a la Cart, a local nonprofit that employs survivors of human trafficking.
Getting your brand involved with a social cause is great for your brand identity and business, great for your company morale and great for the world we share!
Does your company have a local nonprofit or cause it supports? Share with us the ways your company gives back in the comments!
