Make Someone Else’s Independence Day

Kesi Stribling, ATS Editor

Today, Americans celebrate July 4th by remembering those who fought for our country’s independence almost 250 years ago, while likely enjoying great conversation and food with friends and family.

Over the years, our Independence Day blog posts have focused on strategies we can use to foster and promote our own independence, including career tips, enhancing networking skills, building generational wealth, and maintaining healthy work-life cohesion. This year, we are asking our readers and subscribers to support others’ independence today…and everyday.

 

Five things you can do to support others’ independence 

1. Refer a friend
Have a friend looking for a new career opportunity because of a recent company closure or downsizing? Consider referring your best buddy for a position that would be a great fit. Whether sending a note to a LinkedIn connection, providing a professional recommendation, or sending the resume to your company’s recruiter, your supportive gesture can propel your friend’s career growth.

This also applies to friends and colleagues in your network who have recently started a business. A referral, testimonial, or recommendation can go far in getting potential customers to say yes to an introductory meeting, consider a proposal, or invite your friend to an industry or networking event. 

2. Help with household chores
Americans are busy, busy, busy! Helping with a chore or two, like yard work or boxing up items for donations, can save loved ones and acquaintances time and energy. Whether a single parent or someone who travels incessantly for work, the assistance will be appreciated.

If you’re short on time, consider hiring a company that can help your friend with chores or send a a gift card for the company’s services. A quick note – you know your friends best and how they may receive this gesture of kindness. If you’re unsure, it’s perfectly fine to ask them.

3. Offer a shoulder
Sometimes, our friends or family members would just like to have someone to talk to when going through stressful or constraining situations. Offer to listen – no interrupting, judging, or solving problems – so they can unburden themselves. This simple act can help them stay calm, gain perspective, and begin a plan of action.

Be sure to check in with them in about 30 days to ask if things have improved. If so, it’s an opportunity to celebrate the progress, overcoming the hurdle, or mended heart. If things are still a challenge, it is a great opportunity to remind them that you’re still there for talks and reassurances.

4. Pamper a pet
If your colleague or family member desperately needs a vacation to decompress, but won’t go because their furry friends need care, volunteer to take the dog or cat so he can take the welcomed getaway. For friends traveling briefly, such as an overnight business trip, offer to check in on, feed, or walk their pet companions.

For friends who may have lost their jobs recently or have just relocated to another city, consider sending a gift card for pet food and supplies, like Churu, toys, puppy pads, and food dispensers.

5. Gas up the car or get the groceries
Friends going through financial challenges or those in career transition may welcome an offer to gas up the car or send groceries for the week. Some people can get prickly about receiving financial support, so assess the situation first to gauge how the offer will be received. It may be better to order groceries online and have them delivered, or tuck a gift card in an envelope and mail it anonymously.

Have an idea to support someone else’s independence? Let us know by leaving a reply.

Happy Independence Day!

Check it out: View the Declaration of Independence (courtesy of the U.S. National Archives)

Editor’s Note: This updated post originally appeared on July 4, 2019.

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