The Expectation of Corporate Values

Creating and reporting on sustainability plans is no longer the exception among the world’s most successful companies. Sustainability reports are expected.

93% of the world’s 250 largest companies (in terms of revenue) are now reporting on sustainability and social impact. AMD, Xerox, Target, and Salesforce are just a few of these well-known responsible corporate citizens. 

Companies are increasingly taking a stand on social impact issues. Whether it is signing the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion™, the MacArthur Foundation’s CE 100 (Circular Economy) pledge, or joining the #EmbracingSustainabilityChallenge, major CEOs are jumping at the opportunity to let customers know they care.

Some corporations are moving beyond signing pledges and are creating sustainability plans. Many successful corporate social responsibility programs choose a specific issue that is carefully in alignment with the values of their employees and customers. Think HEB and education, Patagonia and the environment, or Dove’s Self Esteem Project.

By choosing a social issue that resonates with your client base and employees, your business stands to increase customer loyalty and employee engagement. Properly communicating your commitment to the issue grows your customer base.

Generations X, Y, and Z are increasingly concerned about social impact and 73% of all consumers believe that a company should do more than just offering a product or service. Customers research the sustainability, diversity, and benefits of a brand before making a purchase or becoming an employee. With Gen Z, a larger cohort than the Baby Boomers, it behooves all companies to begin social impact programs before customers choose a competitor they consider to be more in line with their values.

If your business already has a social impact, are you talking about it? Let the world know. Your company should be synonymous with your good works. 

If you’ve been waiting to implement a social impact program, the time is now to get started.

Get ahead of this growing movement. There are no drawbacks to doing good in the world.