The Neural Link Between Giving & Happiness: What It Means for Your Business

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employee-engagement
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giving
Joel Pollick
Founder & CEO
October 22, 2024

We’ve all experienced that warm, uplifting feeling that comes from giving. But now, science confirms that giving doesn’t just feel good—it actually makes us happier. A study published in Nature Communications found a direct link between generosity and increased happiness. The researchers showed that when people commit to giving, their brains activate areas linked to happiness and fulfillment. Even more importantly, this boost in happiness is lasting, especially when people continue to give.

Connection between giving and employee happiness

So, what does this mean for your business? Simply put, employee happiness is directly linked to better business outcomes. Happier employees are more engaged, productive, and loyal. They experience higher levels of employee morale, which drives stronger performance and a healthier workplace culture.

The formula is simple:

  • Giving = happier employees
  • Happier employees = higher employee engagement and better business results

This isn’t just a feel-good idea. When employees feel good about their work environment and have opportunities to give back, they’re more likely to be committed to their roles and the company’s mission.

Why giving is essential for employee engagement

Building opportunities for giving into your company culture can significantly boost employee engagement. When employees have the chance to contribute to causes they care about, it gives their work more meaning and purpose. This, in turn, improves employee morale, which helps reduce burnout and turnover.

Supporting employee giving is more than just a nice gesture—it’s a strategic investment in a happier, more engaged workforce. Engaged employees are more likely to collaborate, innovate, and bring their best to the job each day. And when employee happiness is high, so is business performance.

How to boost employee happiness through giving

Creating a culture of giving doesn’t have to be difficult. By providing employees with simple ways to give back, you’re fostering happiness and boosting morale. Percent Pledge makes it easy for companies to introduce giving programs that increase employee happiness and engagement. To learn how Percent Pledge can help your team thrive, request a demo today.

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Percent Pledge is different, by design:

  • Engage more employees: Get 50-100% of your team giving globally.
  • No fees on donations: Unlike others, $0 of your donations goes to us.
  • Launch instantly: Our platform is fast to set up and easy to use.
  • Expert support: Partnership from a dedicated Social Impact Manager.
  • Volunteer event planning services: In-person or virtual events.