Entrepreneurs’ Personal Motivation to Act in Ways that are Prosocial
There are many factors that contribute to why entrepreneurs act in ways that are prosocial. What was particularly interesting in my research interviews was when I asked entrepreneurs what personal motivations made them act prosocially. Here’s what they said.
It Brings in More Work
Therapist Laura feels she gets something back if she acts in ways that are prosocial. “ I will get more work if I donate money or do something for charity.”
It’s Who I Am
Coach Deborah says it is in her nature to be prosocial. “ For me, it is part of my personality anyway. I’m always volunteering, always offering support where I can, and providing things for free. I have set up an online group where I provide coaching sessions that now has 400 members.”
Being Prosocial Helps Me
Writer Danielle said that acting prosocially brings personal benefits. “ I found it gave me a real sense of satisfaction which in turn benefitted my mental health.”
It Gives Me a Buzz
Executive Coach Anna likes the feeling she gets from being prosocial. “ You get a buzz when people get something from it.”
There’s a Chance to Get Back What You Put In
Software developer Graham says being prosocial often helps you reap what you sow. “ I helped out a friend’s business by lowering my prices during Covid. I helped him out because he has been really good to me. I looked at the bigger picture and saw a lot of people out of work. Yes I had to rejuggle my own budget but I made it work.”
It Allows Me to Help Others Plan Their Future
Financial planner Helen says she gets a lot from helping young people have a more secure future.
“For me, the big thing is the educational side, going into schools talking to young people about managing finances, and helping to secure their future.”
Being Prosocial Allows Me to Help Others Who Are in the Same Situation I Was In
Executive CV writer Maddie says there are deeper reasons why she’s driven to be prosocial. “ My direct experience of being treated badly in the workplace is the driving force to help my clients get the position they want. Every person comes to me because they are unhappy where they are and want to make a change.”
If I Don’t Give Back, That’s Bad Karma
Management consultant Elaine said that she’s prosocial because of her personal beliefs. “ If I do things that are not moral to me, I feel I will suffer in the future. This is linked to my upbringing in a very religious family. My first employer was the Catholic church.”
I Can Help Others and Give Something Back
A common theme in the interviews was the idea of being able to give something back by being prosocial. This was the case for photographer Ian. “ I was burned out from my corporate career so helping others and being able to get out in nature were big things for me.”
It Helps Me Make a Difference
For mindfulness trainer Mark, being prosocial is all about making a difference in the community. “ It is about balance. Initially it was all one-ended. I was offering free places in drop-in for people unable to pay and sessions for people who were job hunting. My services were pandemic driven. The response was about much more than money, it was about providing connection and helping them find connection themselves. Once they did, they remembered what I had done. People generally remember kindness.”
What personal motivations make you want to behave more prosocially?