The Leadership Edge You’re Overlooking: Why Volunteering Pays Off

The Case for Volunteering

The personal benefits of volunteering are well-documented. People who volunteer report 27% higher levels of life satisfaction. They experience lower stress and greater emotional well-being (CNCS).

For professionals and business leaders, the payoff is even greater:

• Volunteering develops empathy, an essential leadership trait.
• Serving on nonprofit boards or committees strengthens governance and decision-making skills.
• Community involvement expands your professional network and boosts your personal brand.

Deloitte’s research highlights that employees who participate in workplace volunteer activities are 57% more likely to feel connected to their company’s culture and mission (Deloitte Volunteerism Survey).

Start Small—But Start Now

Many professionals put off volunteering, waiting for the “right” time—when they’re more successful, financially secure, or less busy. But if you wait for perfect conditions, you could be waiting forever.

Here’s a simple three-step plan to get started within the next 30 days:

1. Clarify your passion. What causes matter to you—education, health, economic development? Start with what resonates.
2. Leverage your network. Ask colleagues or friends where they volunteer. You’ll be surprised by the connections and opportunities close by.
3. Commit to one small action. Whether it’s one hour a month or lending your skills to a nonprofit’s strategic plan, start with what fits your life right now.

What Happens Next May Surprise You

Volunteering often leads to unexpected opportunities. You may start by helping at a local event and end up joining a nonprofit board. Or you might discover a passion that redefines your personal mission—or even sparks a career pivot.

As Harry Kraemer, former CEO of Baxter International, shares in his leadership insights:

“Start small, but be open to where volunteering takes you. Over time, you can grow into roles that allow you to make an even greater impact.”

You’ll also become a stronger leader. Volunteering hones key leadership skills: listening, empathy, resilience, and decision-making in complex environments. These are the same traits that set successful business leaders apart.

Lead by Example—And Create a Culture of Giving Back

If you lead a team or a business, encouraging volunteerism can strengthen your entire organization. Companies that prioritize volunteering experience higher employee engagement, improved morale, and stronger ties to their communities.

Consider these steps:

• Offer paid volunteer days or flexible schedules to encourage employees to give back.
• Partner with local nonprofits for company-wide volunteer initiatives.
• Recognize and celebrate volunteer efforts within your team.

The Bottom Line

Volunteering isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a leadership strategy that pays dividends. You grow as a leader, build your network, and create lasting positive change.

Why wait? Start today. Your future self—and your community—will thank you.

Further Reading:

• Why Volunteering Can Be Great for Business, Harvard Business Review
• Empathy Is the Most Important Leadership Skill, Harvard Business Review