Use your business for the greater good.

• Author: Miller, Derek

NEXT MONTH, the election should remind us of the opportunity we have to choose our leaders and share our voice with those seeking to govern. The right to vote is at the heart of our democratic system and it's one of the best mechanisms for advancement in our country.

Every business also has the right and duty to be a constructive stakeholder in society and should work with government leaders to shape our collective landscape. Business can and should be a force for good.

Civic and corporate engagement is becoming an ever more important part of the business model, one that seeks not only to deliver value to customers but also demonstrates commitment to the market and provides purpose to employees. More corporations are engaging and supporting their employees in civic matters by providing them time to vote and volunteer, and offering resource groups to learn from.

This concept of corporate statesmanship has long existed within most organizations to varying degrees, but now it's taking on a salience that can't be ignored. The idea epresents an opportunity for businesses to add value beyond the bottom-line and after business hours.

While many companies publish their value proposition to customers, how many draft a value proposition to the communities they reside in? As more companies begin to think outside the office complex and measure or increase their roles in their communities, positive benefits can accrue.

We know consumers often gravitate toward brands that align with their beliefs or macro worldview, whether that's stewardship of the environment, encouragement of voter participation, or simply giving back to parts of the community in need. Our state and republic can be enhanced through business support and encouragement, as well as by giving back to those who support us.

This can also be done without falling prey to the politicization of everything that resonates with special interest groups, the media, or politicians. There is more we have in common than is often reported, and companies can share their values and stances without making a political show over it.

While this approach is becoming more mainstream, it is not yet part of the traditional handbook when it comes to considering or measuring productivity. For example, are we doing enough...