What Is CSR?
Of course you run your business in an ethical manner. But these days it’s no longer enough for a corporation to be quietly altruistic, whether from a genuine appreciation of success and a spirit of “giving back” to the community, (or for those all-important tax breaks.) More and more consumers are becoming environmentally aware and making marketplace choices based on that awareness. When faced with a choice, consumers are “going green,” and its important for your company to make its corporate social responsibility known.
Perhaps you’re wondering what corporate social responsibility is. It’s a business concept that began around the 1980′s, as the young idealists of the 60′s came of age and entered the business world with the notion that corporate citizenship was actually good for business. They created workplaces that provided benefits to employees, making those employees happier and more productive. More productivity meant more profit. But the idea went further, with educational programs and volunteerism which benefited the local community – or sometimes the world.
What is corporate social responsibility? Simply put, it’s making ethical, environmental and social concerns part of your standard business practices. Corporate responsibility can take many forms, including giving back to the community in one form or another, making certain your workplace is safe and aware of employee needs, or turning to greener practices, such as utilizing solar power, or refurbishing buildings with energy conservation in mind. Many corporations support programs in public schools or colleges.
Why is corporate social responsibility important to your company? The most important reason may be the growing public awareness of environmental and social concerns. When competing for business it’s vital to understand that consumers, faced with a choice, will more than ever chose the greener, more responsible service provider or product. The greener company can also avoid costly fines and clean-ups, which can cut disastrously into profits. Corporate responsibility can also help you attract the most promising and productive employees, and then help you to keep them by creating a work environment they can be proud to be part of and to work in.
How can you effectively implement corporate social responsibility into your company? Perhaps you already do. Do you encourage and reward volunteerism among your employees? Do you provide day care space for working parents? You probably already contribute to charitable organizations, and perhaps support education in your field.
More and more, consumers are making choices based on what they read, and in this economy, where the competition is increasingly fierce, you want potential clients and consumers to think of your business in its best capacity, and your service or product to have the best possible image. The services of a good PR firm or agency can help you find ways to become more involved, boost your image, and your corporation’s profitability.