Leibham & Company Corporate & Management Consulting

Networking is probably one of the most important links to successful leadership because it increases the leader’s ability to influence others and thus achieve results. But what does donating money have to do with leadership? I see 2 important issues:

First, strong leaders have high emotional intelligence. According to Reuvan Bar-On’s model, social responsibility – caring for the greater good - is one of the EQ factors. This kind of self-less activity brings huge rewards because it is connected to your values as a leader and because it expands your ability to see beyond the immediate picture.

There is a second, more practical issue. Many non-profit organizations that look for financial support organize a variety of fundraiser events – events that you can attend that will increase your contact base. Over time, by attending these functions you will begin to develop relationships because you already have a common bond – the cause that you are supporting. Attending these activities will take you outside of your traditional professional role and expose you to a variety of other professions and industries.

I encourage you to first make a financial contribution to an organization where the cause is important to you and is connected to your values. And I also encourage you to make donations to organizations where you can affirm your values and meet the individuals you want to develop relationships with. Be strategic and think first of who you want to be able to connect with and what you are going to be able to offer to them in your business relationship.

Calgary has lots of organizations that are always looking for support – social programs, health care, youth, the arts…