Is your company truly socially responsible?

It is no longer a news flash that employees (especially the younger generation) want to work for companies who they feel are making a difference in people’s lives.

Even mature executives feel this way as they get closer to the end of the road, as they feel less inclined to brag about the trailer load of sugary product or number of gas guzzling automobiles that they helped sell last year.

Culture and "giving back" are often the first questions that the younger generation of workers ask about a company that is seeking to hire them.

There is a difference between companies that talk the talk and companies that walk the walk, and it doesn't take long to determine which one of those camps that a company falls into after conducting a little research.

Paul Klein is the owner of Impakt, a firm who specializes in social responsibility.

He offers help to companies who want to legitimately improve in this area.

He offers four ways in which a company can make a difference.

1. Set up an advisory council. A company needs people who will challenge them, not “yes people” employees who are appointed by senior leadership to tell a story. A company is either serious about social purpose, or they are just making window dressing.

2. Have outsiders contribute to the annual report. Why not give space to outsiders who the company is aiming to help with their social efforts?

It should be authored by the people who you are trying to help and what better testimonial could there possibly be?

3. Don't hide bad news. Take it on head first and get ahead of the issues. It will create a higher level of credibility in how people will view you. The days of sugar coating some things while burying others are over. The truth will get out anyway, so own it and take responsibility like an adult.

4. Be provocative! Stand up for something! Fence sitting does nothing to help move the needle on a brand.

The 1990’s are over.

Any efforts or money spent on a fence sitting approach to marketing is an complete waste of resources.

Is your company truly socially responsible? Or are you just kidding yourself?

Farewell,

Mike

Recruiting BusinessMike KingMarch 24, 2017Toronto Headhunter, Recruiter, Headhunters, Recruitment FirmComment