Understanding the Types of CSR
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.
Showing a True Commitment
The most successful corporate social responsibility programs integrate these
two types of CSR together to show a true commitment to a cause. For example, a
company that uses sustainable materials in their products, donates financial
resources to environmental causes, and allows employees to take paid time off
for volunteering at environmental charities would be showing a true commitment
to the environment that goes beyond any single CSR initiative.
Social Media Visibility
One of the reasons that corporations should have visible CSR campaigns is
due to the importance and prevalence of social media. Corporations that want to
protect their brand understand that social media is an integral part of public
perception. When a corporation exercises social responsibility in the form of
fundraising or setting up employee giving programs, using social media to
promote these actions helps to create a positive branding environment and it is
a great way to engage with your audience on a deeper level that goes beyond
your products or services.
Public Relations Benefits
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.
Government Relations
Corporations that place an emphasis on corporate social responsibility
typically have an easier experience when dealing with politicians and
government regulators. In contrast, businesses that present a reckless
disregard for social responsibility tend to find themselves fending off various
inquiries and probes, often brought on at the insistence of public service
organizations. The more positive the public perception is that a corporation
takes social responsibility seriously, the less likely it is that activist
groups will launch public campaigns and demand government inquiries against it.
Building a Positive Workplace Environment