Building a Solid Business Foundation

Building a Solid Business Foundation

A stellar lineup of speakers shared their expertise on building a solid business foundation at this year’s Business Solutions Seminar held on September 14, 2006.  The seminar was coordinated by the Small Business Advocacy Committee. 

Community Building
Robin Campaniano, President & CEO, AIG Hawaii

Do corporations and businesses have a social responsibility to serve the community?  This was the leading question Robin Campaniano challenged the audience with as he opened his presentation on community building.  While Robin acknowledged that community building comes at a cost, he believes it is more expensive not to take part in it.  When he joined AIG Hawaii 14 years ago, then Hawaii Insurance Group, the company had 9% of the market share, no profits, and barely any recognition in the community.

Robin credits community building with playing a significant part in the success of his company.  It has helped AIG Hawaii build relationships with customers, as consumers want to see the establishments in which they bank, shop, etc., do good in the community.  Community service projects such as educating the public on safe driving campaigns, or participating in the Filipino Chamber of Commerce’s 2nd district congressional candidate forum, also provide an opportunity for AIG Hawaii employees to take pride in their company.

In addition to the bottom line, AIG Hawaii managers are expected to take an active role in the community, and will only advance in their careers at AIG Hawaii after doing so.  Whether serving on a board of a non-profit, coaching soccer, or cleaning a sidewalk, managers are encouraged to be involved in community service.  Managers often come back to work with tact and diplomacy, skills they hone because of their work on community boards.  Executives become better executives as a result of seeing how non-profits work, and often come back to AIG Hawaii with new ides and perspectives.

By being involved, Robin receives great intellectual stimulation, and remains committed to community projects simply because “it feels good.” Through his strong beliefs in giving back to the community, he has taken AIG Hawaii from a company with an initial $500 budget for community donations to one that is recognized in our state as a leading community builder.

We extend our gratitude to the Honolulu Star-Bulletin/MidWeek for underwriting this event; AIG Hawaii, Feng Shui Master Clarence Lau, and Olsten Staffing Services for sponsoring this event; and all the exhibitors that participated in the vendor fair.