The business of improving the world

For Baptist, what started as a small trip to help out the underprivileged in south east Asia a few years ago has turned into something big - and a great example of the good business can do in the community.

"I feel like … my job isn't just about helping the business close more sales or build better software.” - Baptist

Speaking to bluenotes on video, Baptist said it’s easy to be sceptical when companies press the importance of social good to the corporate bottom line - but says he has seen firsthand the impact it can have on employees.

“Actually there's a huge impact for the business,” he said. “Speaking for myself, I'm happier.”

“I feel like I'm giving back to the community. That my job isn't just about you know helping the business close more sales or you know building better software.”

“It's actually making a change in the world.”

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In 2017, Salesforce – rated as the world’s most-innovative company by Forbes – sent over 200 people to Cambodia as part of a program which saw 19 houses built in disadvantaged communities.

It’s all part of a philanthropic program pushed by Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, who says the business of business is improving the state of the world, according to Baptist.

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“We're actually encouraged to do whatever we are passionate about,” he said. “For me it's building houses in Cambodia but for one of my teammates it’s working with high schools in Melbourne.”

Baptist also touched on broader themes such as corporate philanthropy, family and coconuts. Watch the video or listen to the podcast above to find out more.

Carina Parisella is bluenotes innovation editor