Every year on the 22nd of April, the global community comes together to celebrate Earth Day. It’s a date that serves as a poignant reminder of the battle against climate change, and the ongoing need to protect our planet.
From planting trees and getting involved in clean-ups, to donating to charities and advocating for policies that protect natural resources, there’s a growing expectation for businesses across all industries to pull up their sleeves and play an active role in building environmental consciousness. The notion of corporate social responsibility (CSR) comes under the spotlight during Earth Day, and it’s something that the public practice industry needs to take notice of.
Can you confidently say that your accountancy firm is doing its bit in mitigating climate change? But more crucially, what can accountancy practices and members of the global community do to invest in our planet?
Here at Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, we understand that as recruiters, we have a responsibility to support firms in taking the right steps forward – and championing CSR is a big way of driving that journey. Helping our clients make better, more sustainable decisions is part of our service, and we’re committed to doing our bit in building a greener future for tomorrow’s talent.
So, why does corporate social responsibility matter, and how can it help you enhance your firm’s brand identity and attract the right candidates, all while conserving the environment? Let’s talk about it.
CSR and The Changing Workforce Landscape
Saying that your firm is reducing greenhouse emissions or managing waste more effectively is no longer enough – your firm needs to show solid evidence. Consumers no longer fall for the old tricks. They’ve become very good at recognising greenwashing and spotting inconsistencies in marketing.
Because of this, consumers are choosing businesses that can demonstrate environmental stewardship, and the same can be said about candidates, too.
By clearly illustrating a comprehensive CSR plan, you’ll be attracting and retaining top talent.
Today’s employees, particularly the Millennial and Gen Z generation, want to work for firms that reflect their values. A study by Inc found Millennials will make up 75% of the global workforce by 2025 and they are looking to work for socially responsible employers.
In support of this, the Cone Communications Millennial Employee Study argues that “64% of Millennials won’t take a job if their employee doesn’t have a strong CSR policy, and 83% would be more loyal to a company that acknowledges and works to mitigate social and environmental issues.” But more interestingly, the study finds that “75% of Millennials would take a pay cut to work for a socially responsible company.”
For more studies on the power of CSR, click here to read Forbes’ full article.
CSR as a Recruitment Tool
What are the benefits of bolstering your CSR programme?
If the research wasn’t compelling enough, here are a few more advantages.
- Alignment of Attitudes: A firm’s actions cause a powerful emotional response. When an employee sees that their organisation is actively contributing to the greater good, they’re more likely to feel more connected and committed to their workplace.
- Workplace Pride: Accountants that work for a firm known for their strong CSR will feel a strong sense of pride to belong to that workforce. This pride translates into higher job satisfaction and loyalty, enabling firms to retain staff and heighten their public persona.
- Sense of Purpose: CSR activities, such as planting trees and getting involved in fundraising events, will provide your team with a sense of purpose that goes beyond their day-to-day tasks. It will make their work feel more meaningful, and help your firm uphold your diversity and inclusion initiatives.
CSR-focused companies cultivate a positive work environment that enhances employee satisfaction and retention. Firms that align their professional culture with environmental objectives attract more skilled and dedicated professionals and promote a work-culture that supports career progression and long-term business development.
Overall, leveraging corporate social responsibility is a great way to enhance your firm’s public image, build an ethically driven team, and attract the calibre of talent your business needs to grow.
How Firms Can Display CSR
Now that we’ve covered the environmental and professional advantages of CSR, how can your firm incorporate it into your day-to-day operations?
Here’s a few actions your firm can take to improve your CSR programme and attract talented candidates at the same time.
- Set aside time for away days or team building events that involve sustainable activities, such as a clean-up. Click here to find an event near you.
- Allow your staff to donate a percentage of their earnings tax-free to an eco-friendly cause. You could even offer to match their donations to show your generosity, too!
- Provide educational resources for your staff, such as a newsletter or email marketing campaign. The more people know about CSR, the better.
- Assess your surroundings. How can your offices be more environmentally friendly? Could you appoint a sustainability champion from your workforce? Consider how energy efficient your premises are and explore the possibility of switching to greener practices.
And the list keeps growing! As environmental consciousness continues to grow, companies across the world are coming up with innovative ideas on how to enhance corporate social responsibility.
Have some ideas of your own? We’d love to hear all about them! Connect with us on LinkedIn today and join our online community.
Wrapping Up
Corporate social responsibility is about more than just protecting the environment and improving your firm’s public image – it’s something that can help you grow and maintain the talent in your team.
Accountancy firms that can demonstrate a clear CSR commitment are more likely to stand out as employers of choice for the next generation of the workforce. By implementing a comprehensive plan, you’ll build a loyal team that upholds the future of the planet and your business.
But where does Public Practice Recruitment Ltd fit into all of this?
As the UK’s experts in public practice recruitment, we’re proud to collaborate with clients and candidates alike, and set them on the right path. As a sustainable, value-led business ourselves, we’re dedicated to upholding CSR practices and setting an example to other firms.
Contact us today to learn why there’s no other recruitment firm better placed to help you grow your firm and find the talent you need to make it happen.
