In this session of our CityLead series where we uncover the genius of people in other industries, we’re looking at what we can learn from non-profit organizations. As you read, we encourage you to write down one or two lessons that most resonate with you and work on implementing them in your company.
Lessons Businesses Can Learn from Non-Profit Organizations
1. People (employees, investors, customers, etc.) want to be a part of something bigger than themselves.
- The goal of a non-profit organization is not to make money. It is to help people and improve lives.
- No matter your business, your primary goal should not be making money for money’s sake. Understand your value is much greater than money. Everything you produce should be increasing the quality of life for your employees and customers.
2. The Culture of the Company Should Be Focused on Developing Community
- Non-profits are all about giving of themselves to their communities to help solve problems. Like a non-profit, your company should have a growing culture of generosity and gratitude.
- How can you do this? Be obsessed with your people. Train them with intentionality. Invest in their growth. Show them you value them in tangible ways.
3. Have a Passion for What You Do
- The work of non-profit organizations has an urgency to it. Why? Because if they are not passionate about what they do, there is real-world impact. If they don’t complete their mission, a mother will remain homeless, a child will be without a family, a senior citizen will not eat. All will suffer.
- The same intensity needs to pervade your business. Just like non-profits, those of us who are in business should be passionate about what we do. Ask yourself: What is my “why?” and then center your work around that answer.
These are just a few of the lessons we can learn from non-profit organizations. If you would like more content like this, or would like to host your own CityLead gathering, contact cameron@citylead.com for more information.
