I totally agree re: professional orgs and think that employers should encourage that type of volunteer work. After all, an employee gaining prominence within a local community only serves to increase the prestige and reputation of the company/employer. I think the problem for many bosses is fear that if an employee's reputation increases, the employee may get “better offers” and leave their job.

I totally agree re: professional orgs and think that employers should encourage that type of volunteer work. After all, an employee gaining prominence within a local community only serves to increase the prestige and reputation of the company/employer. I think the problem for many bosses is fear that if an employee's reputation increases, the employee may get “better offers” and leave their job.

I've been very lucky and never had an employer tell me to stop or cut back, but I do know some folks who have to be very careful about how much they let their employer “know” about their volunteering.

IMHO, if work isn't getting affected, the employers should let 'em do what they want on their own time – especially if it's with professional organizations that can indirectly help grow their own business profile and clients. Happy employees are usually better employees.

Thanks for sharing your experiences!

There are a few other benefits to volunteer leadership that I'd like to point out:

– You will learn something new: I find it hard to believe that anyone can say a volunteer position hasn't taught them new skills. There will be some aspect of your volunteer position that isn't what you do during your day job.

– You will meet a lot of new people: When I was a member of CCG, I met plenty of people, but there were also a lot of people I didn't meet. As president, I meet almost everyone that attends our lunches. And I know those who are regular attendees so much better now. Plus, because I'm president, not only am I meeting new people, but I'm given the opportunity to really show off my leadership skills to a whole new set of people who may become future contacts for a new job, new client, new customer, etc.

– Commitment: Being a (good) volunteer leader shows a current or potential new employer (or client or customer) a level of commitment they won't see through the work you do for your “day job.” This volunteer job is something you do because you WANT to do it, not because you get paid to do it. And I would think most employers, customers, clients, etc., would see the benefit of your being that committed.

This post was mentioned on Twitter by Swami_feeds: 3 Reasons Why Being a Volunteer Leader Helps Your Business http://ff.im/-druQk...