Corporate Social Responsibility

The formal definition of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is: “A concept in which companies incorporate social and environmental concerns into their business operations and in their interactions with stakeholders on a voluntary basis.”

CSR activities are, generally speaking, a company’s commitment to sustainable economic development. This includes working with employees and their families to improve their quality of life. It also includes ’employee motivation, corporate image and reputation, goodwill, and popular opinion. As time passed and interest grew, there were some differences in the concept of ‘CSR’.

Models of Social Responsibility

Carroll‘s CSR pyramid is a framework that explains how and why organizations should take social responsibility. He believes that CSR must encompass all business responsibilities. He argues that there are four types of social responsibilities. The model shows each responsibility in the successive layers of the pyramid.

Each element ‘builds on the other and so no two elements can be mutually exclusive. The size and the level of each layer indicate its relative importance. Philanthropic, therefore, is the lowest layer. A firm cannot exist without philanthropy, but it can if it makes a profit.

Economic Responsibilities

Entrepreneurship is based on economic responsibility. Firms are responsible for providing goods and services to customers and making a profit. There is no reason to make a profit and there are no other responsibilities.

This is why the economic foundation exists. You have specific economic responsibilities. These include the obligation to be as profitable as possible and to maintain a strong competitive position as well as high operating efficiency.

Legal Responsibilities

Compliance with all legal obligations and the regulations that are set out in their framework is part of your legal responsibilities. Economic responsibilities are only possible if you adhere to the law. You might think, however, that the nature of law or legal proceedings renders the “line” between legality and illegality less rigid.

Ethical Responsibilities

Compliance by a firm with its ethical responsibilities demonstrates concern for what is considered fair and just by consumers, employees, and shareholders as well as other stakeholders. Ethical responsibilities extend beyond the legal and economic and are intertwined. They advocate for increased legislation and higher stakeholder expectations.

Philanthropic Responsibilities

Originally known as ‘discretionary,’ philanthropic responsibility is a broad range of activities that contribute to the firm’s reputation for being a good corporate citizen. These include supporting charitable activities, human welfare, education, and support of cultural activities.

Venture philanthropy is where firms offer technical assistance and funding to community-based organizations. While voluntary donations can improve the quality of life for society, philanthropic responsibilities go beyond ethical boundaries. However, just because a company is not philanthropic doesn’t mean it’s unethical.

Benefit of Corporate Social Responsibility

Provides economic benefits

One benefit that is often cited is the fact that honest and trustworthy companies can increase their sales and profitability. It is likely that it is true that a socially responsible consumer will avoid purchasing products from companies that cause harm to society and instead actively search for products that benefit society.

A firm that is perceived as socially responsible can attract more customers, gain from positive corporate profiles and be influential in financial circles and with potential investors. Strong CSR reputations can help to ensure the firm’s longevity.

Sustainability

This is one of the greatest long-term benefits a company can get. Companies can become more sustainable through CSR. Reducing carbon emissions and using renewable energy are two obvious ways to be socially responsible.

It is possible for companies to encourage their employees to switch off all devices when they aren’t being used and to turn off air conditioners and lights after work. This will allow the company to save significant amounts on its utility bills and be recognized as a socially responsible business.

Can counter negative events

CSR responses can help stakeholders forgive the firm by telling the truth and being honest about mistakes and bad practices. Consistent transparency regarding negatives can help build goodwill. Some unethical behavior has been deemed ‘unforgivable’, and can stigmatize a company and/or its products.

Offers a competitive advantage

CSR can provide a competitive advantage and an opportunity for innovation. Strong CSR images can help distinguish a company from others and can improve its reputation, build its brand, and build trust with customers, suppliers, and business partners. The values also encourage employees to work together, increase motivation, and inspire more commitment.

Retain and attract new employees

Evidence shows that CSR can positively impact employee retention, work satisfaction, and application rates. Research has shown that applicants are attracted to companies with high levels of social responsibility. They are more likely to apply for jobs with these firms or to choose a firm’s job offers.

Can lead to a decrease in costs

CSR activities have been shown to reduce both risk and costs. CSR activities can increase efficiency and decrease operating costs. In a survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers, 73 percent of respondents indicated that one of the top three reasons for becoming socially responsible was ‘cost savings’.

Frequently Asked Questions