Many small, medium and large business have acted and supported projects in their local communities for many years. However, the term Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) – is much misunderstood or un-known.
CSR is a company’s sense of responsibility towards the community and environment, both ecological and social in which it operates.
For large business acting on social issues for example environmental, education, homelessness and un-employment has formed a major part of their community activities. Since the introduction of the Social Value Act in 2012 this has increased further.
However, CSR is not limited to big organisation, small and medium businesses do this and have done so for a very long time.
Small and medium sized businesses often build good strong relationships within their community. Much of their engagement is driven by location, local good causes, local charitable projects or the staff and customers which they serve.
A recent Deloitte 2019 Millennial Survey https://www2.deloitte.com/global/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/millennialsurvey.html reported some interesting statistics on the Millennial and Generation Z workforce:
59% would leave an employer that did not a positive impact on the local community
56% would leave a business if it did not support a healthy work/life balance
55% would leave if the business did not support personal development with training and mentoring
55% believe that business has a positive impact on society.
42% would buy more, increase relationship with a business, product or brand that impacts positively on the environment or society
Bearing in mind these statistics, there is a great need for governments, countries, businesses and consumers to modify behaviours to ensure a better, healthier environment and local communities. NOW is a great time for businesses to get involved in CSR.
If a business reviews the benefits of CSR and implement a plan that best suits the business values and culture, this will bring a host of business benefits and at the same time create a positive relationship with clients, staff and the local community.
Some key steps:
- Focus on the CSR project or good cause that matters to your business, your staff or customers. Chose a cause that resonates with you. Staff and customer will see the authenticity if the project is right for your organisation.
- Create an action plan, it will help the business focus and plan for the CSR activity.
- Communicate clearly with your staff, customers and business stakeholders to raise your profile.
- Utilise the project to motivate and engage your staff, customers and supply chain.
- Take good photographs, write a good case study and press release to publicise your activity.
- Utilise the publicity to market your company, demonstrate your authenticity and commitment to the project.
Some take away thoughts:
- CSR is not a new concept – small and medium businesses have supported local good causes for a long time
- Develop a CSR plan that is authentic and provides credibility to your business
- Support CSR projects that motivate and engage your staff and customers
- Publicise your efforts, demonstrate your authentic approach and what the CSR project means to your business
Do you want to find out how your business can benefit?
Get in touch with us info@tabarkerassociates.co.uk 07449 041 092