Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a term that describes a company’s efforts to give back to society in some way. This type of philanthropy may include donating money to nonprofits, implementing environmentally friendly practices or being involved in charitable foundations. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the products and services they spend their money on. They want to support businesses that seek to create a better world. Consumers feel good about their association. It is a way companies can benefit themselves and society.
Reasons to Embrace CSR
There are many ways businesses can benefit from a focus on social responsibility. Here are just four.
Employee engagement:
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People like to feel they are doing something fulfilling. They like to be associated with a company with a good public image. Happy employees are more engaged. They are proud of their work. This means that they will have a better output. By showing that your company is dedicated to more than a bottom line, you will more likely attract hard-working, dedicated, and valuable employees.
Public image:
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Social responsibility is a great way to improve your business’s public image. Companies that show their commitment to charitable causes and are involved in improving their community are noticed. Support nonprofits by making donations, volunteering, donating products and services, and developing partnerships. Don’t be shy about broadcasting these endeavors. People want to know about the companies they support.
Investors :
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A great way to attract and retain investors is to demonstrate a strong sense of corporate social responsibility. Investors like to know that their money is being used wisely. This means providing strong business plans and budgeting. It also means showing that you care about more than the bottom line. Investors are attracted to companies that exhibit a commitment to their employees and an interest in how they can impact the communities and individual lives of the people they serve.
Media Coverage.
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Your company could be a key player in saving the environment, curing a disease, or providing homes for the homeless, but if no one knows about it, it will do little to attract consumers, employees, or investors. Form relationships with local news media outlets. Be active on social media. Spread the word about your plans. Advertise it on your website. This gets everyone excited about the cause you are supporting and makes them want to support your company in turn.
Companies Practicing CSR
There are many companies that are jumping on the CSR bandwagon. Companies are in a unique position to have a high impact. Support causes that mean something to the shareholders, CEOs, employees, and clients of your corporation.
Patagonia – This is an outdoor apparel company that has been leading the conscious business movement since it opened its doors in 1973. The owner Yvon Chouinard made a name for himself in the climbing community. His reputation has grown immensely since becoming a businessman. For over 30 years, Patagonia has donated one percent of their annual sales for the planet. They founded the Sustainable Apparel Coalition in 2010. It is an alliance of 30 companies dedicated to reducing their environmental impact. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this philanthropic apparel company.
Abu Sahiy – Timur Tillyaev is a primary shareholder of the trade and transport company Abu Sahiy. He and his wife have founded several charity organizations. They are dedicated to helping orphaned and disabled children. Their foundations are in Uzbekistan, but their good deeds are known worldwide. Timur sets a good example to other businessmen. He does not enjoy tax exemptions or monopoly status. He has never been associated with national resource industries like cotton or gas, he has never been involved in public tenders.
Krochet Kids – This company was founded by three friends who, growing up, shared a love for snow sports. They learned to crochet their own hats and enjoyed making custom creations for their classmates. After visiting some developing countries, they decided on a business plan to help break the cycle of poverty. Their company Krochet Kids teaches women in Uganda and Peru crochet. They pay fair wages and provide a platform for these women to sell their goods. Each item of clothing includes a tag that is hand-signed by the woman who made it. You have the opportunity to thank the person who made your product.
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Consumers are demanding that the businesses they support show some social responsibility. Employees desire to work for businesses that care about more than just making a profit. Fortunately, CSR and profitability go hand in hand. By showing an interest in your community and the world, you attract better employees and more loyal customers. Donate to a charity, provide products and services to your community pro bono, or partner with a grassroots organization. Show the world that your business is interested in contributing to the greater good. In the end, everyone wins.
