What comes to mind when you hear the words, Pro Bono?

If you’re like most people, then you probably think of an attorney performing legal work for free. And you wouldn’t be mistaken in your understanding. But it’s not just attorneys that can perform Pro Bono work. You’re just as capable of doing so too.

The Latin phrase Pro Bono means for the public good. The term generally refers to services rendered by a professional for free or at a lower cost. So, as you can see, almost anyone can perform Pro Bono work.

Why would you perform Pro Bono or work for free?

As stated in the definition, for the good of the public. And, although you might, on occasion, forget, you are also a member of the public.

You might also be thinking, how can performing work for free benefit or be good for you. Another valid consideration. So, here are a few reasons that might convince you to give your expertise and time for free.

First, there’s the obvious, which you may or may not believe in, karma. As they say, what goes around comes around.

Second, when you perform Pro Bono work, you get the opportunity to sharpen your skills outside of your current realm of employment. For example, there might be a non-profit or cause you’re interested in that doesn’t have the resources to hire someone with your skills, and in this case, you can support them by volunteering your services.

Lastly, there’s network and reputation building. You’ve probably heard that your reputation precedes you, and this simply means that people have heard about you from other people. Therefore, if this is true, why not actively manage what people are going to hear about you?

So, regardless of your skills or vocation, consider spending at least a small fraction of your time performing Pro Bono work. In doing so, you might just find that not only will other people benefit from your contribution but being good to the public will be good for you too.

P.S. Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed it, please share it with one person you love.