The Value Of Social Responsibility

Companies cannot exist without its incorporators and owners, employees or the approval of government agencies concerned. But most important of all, companies cannot survive without the people who are interested in its nature of work and its products. As a company owner, I know that the main goal of most business owners is to earn profit by satisfying the needs of their target customers. But is it really just all about this?

Admittedly, we cannot say that profit is not the main concern of a business. We sacrifice money, and sometimes, even employees, just to cut costs. But beyond the value and numbers, can there be something more than that? Can there be something that creates an impact not only on our bank accounts but also on the people around us?

This is where corporate social responsibility comes in. Building a corporate entity whose mission transcends the boundaries of monetary value is an extraordinary contribution to the people enabling the business to thrive. It is in this regard that we must take part in the nation-building process because, in the end, each of us will either benefit with its advancement or suffer with its downfall. Here are some of the most common ideas when it comes to corporate social responsibility:

Going green. Global warming is not a myth. We feel its effects today and it would take everyone to make an effort if we want to preserve our environment. One of the most basic ideas when it comes to corporate social responsibility is going green—reducing plastic and Styrofoam usage, opting for biodegradable packaging, and implementing other techniques for saving resources.

The challenge here, however, is for companies to decide how to cost materials properly—quality “greener” materials are often priced higher, and the cheap ones are often only a burden for customers. Cloth bags cost a few more pesos than paper bags, but they are great alternatives in many situations and are reusable, as well.

Reaching out. How about giving some time to those less fortunate and allowing them to share a bit of your excess from your profit? Some of us are blessed and lucky enough to build an empire that generates money for us. But for the rest of society, the same cannot be said. This is where those who are more capable can reach out. One of the most popular programs is providing housing projects for the poor. You don’t necessarily need to shell out money in this kind of project. You can bring your entire team and help in the building of houses. Not only are you helping communities, you are also providing an opportunity for the members of your firm to learn about the living conditions of those who earn less.

Lead. If your firm is involved with people management and training, how about sharing advice to fresh graduates on how they could get hired by big companies? Conduct free or cheap seminars that tackle personality development, leadership skills and communication skills. You can conduct livelihood trainings such as starting a karinderya or sari-sari store business. You can even try organizing handicrafts workshops like how to make bags out of rags, how to make beaded jewelry, and even use these as small corporate giveaways. Help housewives (or househusbands) earn while they stay at home.

We are all members of the same society. Companies owe their profits not only to their top management and bottom ranks, but also to the people who help them continue to survive year after year. Those who have the better standing in life must not forget to help their fellowmen rise from poverty as well. A corporate entity with eyes that see the living conditions that surround it, an entity with a mind that understands these situations, and a firm with hands that react and help better these situations—this is the kind of company we must aspire to become.

*Originally published by the Manila Bulletin. C-6, Sunday, March 22, 2015. Written by Ruben Anlacan, Jr. (President, BusinessCoach, Inc.) All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or copied without express written permission of the copyright holders.