4 Ways to Build a Socially-Responsible Business
Customers are increasingly choosing to patronize businesses that aim to do the right thing and act responsibly. People are now basing purchasing decisions in part on a business’ behavior. Here are some ways that your business can be more more socially responsible.
Be Active in the Community
Participating in the wider community through both charitable initiatives and volunteering will show customers that your business cares. This demonstrates that something beyond profit governs your activities. Charitable donations are a way of giving back to the community, and your customers definitely take notice. Even if you give a little bit of money or some of your time, the satisfaction that you and your business will derive will be immense. When you support the community, the community will support you in turn.
Look into Solar Energy
Reducing your business’ carbon footprint by going solar is not only socially responsible, but it can help your bottom line, too. Besides the environmental impact, there are plenty of profit-driven motivations that make solar energy sensible. After investing the upfront cost of installing the solar panels, your electricity bills will be greatly reduced. Once installed, these systems can last for 20 to 25 years, which, given there are tax incentives for turning to solar power, make the change worthwhile. At the same time, you are doing your part to reduce greenhouse gases.
Adopt a Code of Ethics
Your corporate behavior affects both your employee’s morale and your business image in the community. You can impact how your company does business by incorporating behavior rules and standards. This code then becomes part of how employees do their jobs, governing their employment evaluations. This code of ethics can include various rules that mandate respect and a requirement to follow rules and regulations. It can proactively define what constitutes bad behavior to shape employee expectations.
Create Incentives
Employees will behave in a more socially responsible way when it is worth their while. By offering awards for workers who engage in socially responsible behavior, you provide an incentive for them to become good examples to other employees. This will trigger a domino effect in among your employees. Examples of incentives could include corporate programs meant to teach the right kind of behavior, including ethics training and credit for time spent engaging in socially responsible activities.
As a business owner, you have a multitude of ways to make your business more socially responsible. Any initiative should start from the top, so why not get started today?
For more advice on how your business can act responsibly, we are happy to help with our consultation services. Check them out today!