Thursday, April 11, 2013

Why Corporate Social Responsibility Is So Important

By Sebastian Troup


In 2013, many companies are examining exactly how effective their branding is and how they are perceived by their customers and the general public. With all else being equal, companies that take an active role in promoting their corporate social responsibility programs are generally viewed more favorably than those that do not have highly visible programs. Having goals and a vision for your company that go beyond products and profits definitely provides a warmer image of your business that consumers will be more eager to engage with.

There are actually two different types of corporate social responsibility to consider. The first one consists of corporations providing funding and resources for worthwhile social causes, such as donating money or employee time to charities. For many people, this is the definition used when thinking about corporate responsibility. However, another type of CSR involves putting together a real plan to produce products or provide services that are in the best interests of society. These include things like using safe materials in design and manufacture, corporate environmental initiatives, and other factors such as job creation and economic development.

In order to truly make a significant social impact, a company needs to incorporate both corporative giving and the creation of a CSR plan. For example, your business can begin using sustainable materials when creating products, reduce the amount of packaging, develop a company-wide recycling program and use other products that limit the impact on the environment. In addition, you can also donate money to environmental causes and designate paid employee time for charitable causes. This demonstrates that your company takes its social responsibility seriously at every level.

The prevalence and impact of social media cannot be brushed aside, and this is a huge part of any company's perception by the public. When your CSR programs are in place, using social media is an excellent way to quickly and effectively provide a positive public relations outlet. This improves your branding and also allows your target audience to truly interact with your company in a way that moves beyond simply buying your products or using your services.

Public relations is a potent tool for shaping consumer perception and building a company's image. Corporations that actively promote their social responsibility activities often take steps to publicize these efforts through the media. Getting the word out about corporate donations, employee volunteer programs, or other CSR initiatives is a powerful branding tool that can build publicity for you in both online and print media.

Aside from the fact that corporate social responsibility has a huge positive impact for whatever charities and causes you promote, a company with a visible CSR plan also generally finds it much easier to deal with regulators from the government, as well as politicians. Public service organizations and activists also rarely target companies with a brand or company that has a positive social image, so you also protect your company from negative publicity campaigns.

Finally, one of the greatest benefits of promoting social responsibility in the workplace is the positive environment you build for your employees. When employees and management feel they are working for a company that has a true conscience, they will likely be more enthusiastic and engaged in their jobs. This can build a sense of community and teamwork which brings everyone together and leads to happier, more productive employees.




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