This isn’t your dad’s workforce. Today, employees are looking for ways to enhance their employment experience and surprisingly it’s not always about the paycheck. As a matter of fact, in a Salary.com 2009 survey an attractive compensation ranked ninth. What was number one? Good relationships with co-workers. A good work /life balance rated in the top five.

So why not give your employees an opportunity for both by organizing a workplace day of service.

Choice is good. If you want your staff to get involved, you need to get their buy in. Survey your employees to discover their passions. Look at your own company values or how your company could develop a tie-in to a particular nonprofit. Not only will the organization appreciate the help, but it demonstrates to the community that you care and that could lead to loyal customers.

It all comes together. There’s nothing like a shared experience to build a team. So as you’re helping others, you’ll be helping to strengthen the bonds between your coworkers. This should boost morale, give employees an opportunity to explore their strengths outside of the work environment and possibly even help you discover a new leader among your staff.

Giving back to the community has obvious benefits to the organization you support. But your company should receive some recognition as well. Make sure you take photos and share in your newsletter and with the media. Your clients will appreciate working with a community leader.