In business, we talk more and more often about CSR, or Corporate Social Responsibility. But do you know everything behind this term? Definition, pillars, benefits, implementation steps: here are the answers to all your questions.
What is the definition of CSR?
There is no single definition for CSR: different entities have created their own. Although significantly different, these definitions develop similar ideas.
The definition of the European Commission
In 2011, the European Union defined CSR as “the responsibility of businesses for the effects they have on society”. It then replaces the one that was given in 2001, namely “the voluntary integration of the social and ecological concerns of businesses into their commercial activities and their relationships with their stakeholders”.
The definition of ISO 26000
The ISO 26000 standard offers a more complete definition. For her, CSR is “the responsibility of an organization with respect to the impacts of its decisions and activities on society and the environment, resulting in transparent and ethical behavior that:
- contributes to sustainable development including the health and well-being of society;
- takes into account the expectations of stakeholders;
- complies with current laws and is compatible with international standards;
- is integrated throughout the organization and implemented in its relationships.”
This definition is interesting because it provides specific guidelines for establishing a successful corporate CSR policy.
What are the pillars of CSR?
It is considered that there are three main pillars for CSR: the economic, social and environmental dimension.
The economic dimension
The economic dimension is essential to CSR. Indeed, the latter involves financial commitments and human investment to implement the various approaches.
In some cases, you need to adjust the organization's business model to think more effectively over the long term. CSR makes it possible to better anticipate risks and optimize company activities.
The social dimension
The social dimension is also very important: it is a question of valuing each person who collaborates in the operation of the company. This therefore involves offering excellent working conditions, offering well-being to employees and applying a management policy that suits everyone.
CSR must promote both the development of employees, but also their commitment to sustainable development.
The environmental dimension
Finally, the environmental dimension involves broadening our vision to observe the impact of our activities on what surrounds us. The company must therefore identify the consequences of its actions and define an action plan to reduce their negative impact.
By going even further in the process, it can even contribute positively to its ecosystem.
Why implement a corporate CSR policy?
For companies, CSR has first and foremost been a legal obligation since 2019. But it also brings numerous benefits.
Responding to a legal obligation
The 2019 PACTE law contains various measures related to CSR. In particular, it corrected article 1833 of the Civil Code, which now states that “The company is managed in its social interest, taking into account the social and environmental challenges of its activity.”
Companies that wish to do so can also integrate these issues into their raison d'être or even become a company with a mission.
Affirming your values
Committing to a CSR policy makes it possible to assert its values, both with its employees, but also for all stakeholders (customers, suppliers, investors, etc.). It's a great way to stand out in a market.
Strengthen your employer brand
Talents are more and more sensitive to the meaning of their work and to the commitments of companies. Establishing an ambitious CSR approach is an excellent way to demonstrate that your organization is committed.
Engaging your employees
CSR policies allow employees to better understand the economic, social and environmental commitments of their company. This gives meaning to their missions and increases their sense of belonging. Thus, they may want to get involved in this process and to invest in achieving goals that affect them. This can significantly increase their productivity.
What are the essential elements for a successful CSR approach?
Here are 3 essential elements for your CSR approach to be a success in your business.
Appoint a CSR manager
Before putting Put a strategy in place, it is important to choose a manager who will manage the entire project. Depending on the size of the company, the person selected may have other missions in parallel. The manager does not necessarily have to act alone: he can easily designate a team to surround him.
Take stock
Establishing a diagnosis of the situation in the company is then essential before launching any action. This makes it possible to assess its impact, to determine the major points of improvement and to establish an action plan.
Once this action plan is defined, communicate transparently with all stakeholders in the business. Internally, it is imperative that all employees understand the potential impact of future actions.
Create your CSR report in your image!
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With this template, you will benefit from:
- A ready-to-use structure : Simplify the creation of your CSR report with professional formatting.
- Customizable sections : Adapt each part of the report according to the specificities of your business.
- A guide to integrating your CSR initiatives : Make sure you cover all the important aspects of your social responsibility.
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Involving employees in its CSR approach
It is also very interesting to suggest that your employees themselves initiate actions in favor of CSR, thanks to a crowdfunding platform for example. With Teamstarter, they can set up creative projects. Each month, all employees are allocated a budget, which they can assign to the project of their choice. It has been proposed in advance by one or more employees, ready to implement it as soon as they have raised a sufficient amount. Involving employees and empowering them to realize their ideas is a very effective way to engage and empower them.
All businesses, regardless of size, are concerned with CSR. They are therefore required to consider the economic, social and environmental impact of all their actions. To implement an effective CSR policy, appoint a manager, do A balance sheet, draw up an action plan and involve your employees as much as possible. Then remember to communicate on your results, for example by publishing an annual CSR report. This allows all stakeholders to understand the consequences of their actions.
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