What is Corporate Social Responsibility?
Corporate Social Responsibility is focusing on other aspects besides profit. It looks at the interests of society by identifying the impact the company's activities have on the environment, consumers, employees and the community.
These factors are inextricably linked to a company's reputation. Where it used to be common belief that companies focused entirely on themselves and on making as much profit as possible, today companies are expected to act with a certain consciousness. Companies are expected to deal with the environment, employees and other factors in an acceptable manner.
Why is Corporate Social Responsibility important?
Corporate Social Responsibility can have several advantages. In this way, the risk of damage to image can be reduced. By not dealing wisely with Corporate Social Responsibility, an image can be destroyed in no time.
In addition to preventing reputational damage, Corporate Social Responsibility can also be used to achieve brand differentiation. Companies can, for example, link a specific theme, such as sustainability, to their product. This can promote the originality and individuality of a brand.
How is the communication about Corporate Social Responsibility?
It is important that a company communicates its Corporate Social Responsibility strategy well. This can attract talented employees and have a positive influence on stakeholders. Communication about Corporate Social Responsibility can be done in different ways. We discuss a number of them here.
An annual report can be issued regarding Corporate Social Responsibility. This lists and discusses goals and successes in the field of Corporate Social Responsibility – in a readable and accessible manner.
In addition, attention can be paid to Corporate Social Responsibility strategies and goals through online profiling. This includes posting relevant information on a company website, on social media and in the form of blog articles.
It is important not to make empty promises in the field of Corporate Social Responsibility. Greenwashing – pretending to be more social and greener than a company actually is – is an example of this.
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