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In the spirit of the holidays, we are tackling
the delicate dilemmas that come with soliciting
for charitable causes in the workplace. We all
want to support noble causes. But beware, Workers,
of letting such a campaign dissolve into ignoble
behavior. Remember, it's the season for giving,
Folks, not getting.
What is the proper etiquette for asking for charitable
donations and pledges at work? And what is the
polite way to respond to those requests —
especially when you're not interested?
— Giving till it Hurts
Dear Hurting:
Whether it comes from your CEO or a colleague,
most workers have been asked at some point in
their careers to give to the greater good. It's
a fine notion for an employer to embark on a company-wide
philanthropic program, such as payroll deduction
plans, volunteering programs or matching gift
pledges. Such corporate efforts can make a tremendous
difference to nonprofit organizations, as well
as benefit the workplace culture.
What counts, however, is the way in which
an employer or co-worker asks for a charitable
contribution.
"It isn't really appropriate for a corporation
to say you have to donate to a specific
charity, or for any individual to pressure another
co-worker," cautions Jill Bremer, an etiquette,
communications and image consulting expert in
Oak Park, Illinois (www.bremercommunications.com).
The only appropriate method, she advises, is
to simply make people aware of a charitable campaign
— then just leave it at that. For example,
you can send out brochures, make available a packet
of information sheets, even talk directly to co-workers
with whom you have a personal relationship. But
the effort, Bremer said, "must be totally
benign, with no pressure involved. Let the people
come forward on their own."
Sometimes charitable campaign leaders make the
mistake of urging co-workers for 100 percent participation.
"They must realize they are fortunate to
get whatever it is people decide to contribute….
It is up to the individual to set his or her own
agenda for the charitable causes they wish to
support."
On the other hand, workers on the receiving end
of a solicitation should respond to such requests
with tact.
If you can't support something, you don't need
to slam the door, hang-up the phone or toss a
solicitation packet in the trash in front of the
solicitor to get your point across. Also, avoid
passing judgment on someone else's charity program,
or hemming and hawing and leaving the charity
campaign leader wondering. Be polite and direct.
Bremer suggests saying something like: "No,
thank you. I've already reached my limit for charitable
donations this year. I contributed to XYZ charity
this year. Try me again next year."
Then, acknowledge their effort and thank them
for their time.
Electronically and Merrily Yours,
Ms. Courtesy will read over all your inquiries,
select questions that will be of general interest,
and do her best to answer them in a timely manner
(keeping in mind that her column runs monthly).
She is looking forward to hearing from you.
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