Corporate Social Responsibilty

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to the ethical self-regulation of a company. Most big companies already use CSR and more and more small and medium-scaled ones follow by taking up Corporate Social Responsibility actions. CSR concentrates and aims on positive social and environmental issues and interests of a company in relation to its employees, consumers, stakeholders, local communities and in general members of the public.

Companies using CSR spend money on local communities but also donate to organizations in developing countries. An example of CSR being used directly in a business is the endorsement of Fair Trade like it is used by tea and coffee companies.

Companies using CSR try to build a positive image among the public. They want people to know that they care for their staff, their costumers and the impact they have concerning the environment and social sectors.

However some companies using CSR are not always praised but rather not taken serious. McDonald’s as well as British American Tobacco both face public allegations that they only use CSR to distract the public from their actual image and doings.

CSR is a good activity for organisations to use. It will shed positive light on the company, raise awareness and also improve staff and costumer satisfaction. Still CSR needs to be used and communicated right so no misunderstandings or misperceptions occur and the company is recognized for its actions and for what it wants to stand for.