# 4 Ways to Build a Socially-Responsible Business

- Link: https://www.lumlawgroup.com/4-ways-to-build-a-socially-responsible-business/
- Published: 2019-06-28T09:09:36-07:00
- Author: Albert J Lum

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](https://blog.leightonbroadcasting.com/blog/5-exciting-reasons-your-business-should-be-involved-in-the-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](https://humless.com/the-benefits-of-commercial-solar-panels/)
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](https://www.whistleblowersecurity.com/four-reasons-business-needs-code-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**](https://lumlawgroup.com/Staging/portfolio-galleries/business-law/)**.
Check them out today!**