As a consumer, it’s easy to feel bombarded with advertising messages. Advertisers’ tactics to reach consumers become more and more outrageous each year. I believe advertising is a delicately balanced mixture between art and science that delivers the appropriate messages to the right target. But I also have old school, conservative views that simple good stewardship in the community can also build business.

Christian Brothers Automotive has built a stellar reputation for their commitment to high ethics and serving the community. The personal testimonials I’ve heard about their service have always been outstanding: superior work, fair prices and great customer service. The automotive service and repair industry is not traditionally known for these traits, so Christian Brothers’ unique approach builds a loyal following.

Christian Brothers takes it a step further by also serving their communities. This past weekend, my local Christian Brothers hosted a free oil change day for single moms and widows. They served food, drinks and provided fun activities for kids, such as Hot Wheels car races, a bounce house, face painting, and even a DJ. The franchise has opened over 100 locations in less than 10 years and has the highest customer satisfaction and loyalty ratings in the industry.

Salesforce.com, a global cloud computing company that is best known for its customer relationship management products, has established the corporate giving philanthropy, Salesforce.com Foundation. The Foundation has a 1/1/1 model that incorporates people, technology, and resources.

  • People – Salesforce.com has created a company culture of giving back, where employees are given 6 days off each year for volunteer projects of their choice.
  • Technology – A percentage of products and services are donated each year, but heavy discounts are also extended to nonprofits and education users.
  • Resources – The Salesforce.com Foundation has given more than $68 million in grants through employee gift matching programs, education and technology initiatives.

Salesforce.com has built a reputation for serving the community that also bleeds into their corporate culture.  Salesforce.com is known for a work/life balance, competitive salaries, good benefits and the freedom to chart your own career growth. And sales reflect a happy workforce. Salesforce.com revenue was up 37.3% this past year totaling $4.07 billion.

Maybe it’s coincidence, but companies who are building good communities are also building successful businesses.