/ Published in Entrepreneurship

Why should business be socially responsible?

In general, corporate social responsibility establishes that necessary and recommended link between the firm /company and the community outside of the frames of the manufacturing, distribution or whatever the business activity is. CSR has several general aims – sustainable economy development, strategic partnership, improvement of relationships between employers and employees and even inside the entire community of the place where the firm is situated. CSR is a kind of social obligation to the firm, aimed at the
And all of these, of course, lead to the conclusion that social responsibility is a modern trend created by and for the business sphere. This trend meats the future, because up to now such an obligation hasn’t been part of the list of main and additional tasks for a firm to execute. Moreover, the tendency of more and more businessmen actively performing CSR policies aiming to improve the personal and direct connection between people and society has been growing with a huge speed. And, if you think that whatever activity from the CSR program in a company is a kind of a charity (some even consider it a waste of money), you should think again. The truth is that CSR is an effective method for increasing your profits with proven record. CRS is a way for companies to benefit themselves while also benefiting society. With it a firm does not just expand its popularity among a larger audience, but it is also an inexhaustible source of opportunities, innovation and, last but not least, competitive advantages.

The different social campaigns and charity activities bring different advantages to the business world. The statement that all of them are great factors for faster and more successful growth is indisputable, though. But to show you the point of corporate social responsibility in practice, I’ve listed some of the main and most important benefits it brings.

1. Increased customer loyalty

Customers are more likely to trust and be loyal to socially responsible businesses compared to companies that aren’t. Providing a great product and shopping experience, have their benefits. If you really want your customers to keep coming back, though, you need to let them know that their money is not just filling your pockets, but is rather used for the welfare of the society they are part of.

2. Employee satisfaction

Employees will be proud to work for a reputable company which consistently helps societies improving their quality of life. Employees working in such a company will feel more motivated to work harder for the company’s success. Socially responsible companies will also be able to attract and retain the best talents more easily.

3. CSR boosts the brand image and reputation

By being socially responsible, your firm is gaining support and positive recommendations.

4. Long-term partnerships

Businesses can simultaneously improve their economic, social and environmental performance and find new market opportunities through strategic partnerships with NGOs. The knowledge, expertise and capabilities of NGOs and corporations are distinct and may be complementary; together, NGOs and companies can often accomplish more both for society and for the business.

5. Shareholders are satisfied

What a shareholder cares about regarding the firm he has stocks in, is its good reputation, the solid dividend and people’s opinion. Because, after all, shareholders do not participate in the main working processes of the company!

According to Joel Bakan’s (2004) in his book “The Corporation” – corporations “are now often expected to deliver the good, not just the goods; to pursue values, not just value; and to help make the world a better place”, despite that CSR is perceived to be a modern mechanism for profit-maximization.

So, what do you think about CSR?

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