How to integrate Corporate Social Responsibility into business strategy ESG

Due to the constant changes we are experiencing and the challenges we are facing, companies are paying more attention to their Corporate Social Responsibility (ESG) strategies, which often go hand in hand with issues such as inclusion, social innovation, sustainability and ways in which impact can be generated in and from the organisation. The benefits of creating ESG plans in companies (SMEs, family businesses, large corporations and any type of business) far outweigh the drawbacks. The forward-looking entrepreneur knows that taking action is an investment in the business. 
 
How does Corporate Social Responsibility benefit my company? Adopting a ESG culture in your organisation has numerous advantages, both internally and externally: it improves corporate reputation and provides differential value. It builds customer loyalty and increases the possibility of attracting new ones. 
 
We detail these advantages and help you to implement them in your strategy. 
 
#1 Improve reputation. In a scenario in which there is a perceived decline in trust in organisations, companies have the opportunity to implement corporate social responsibility strategies that demonstrate their commitment to society. 
 
#2 Reinforce the company's values, especially consistency and credibility. You may think that just saying it is enough, but it is not. You will have to prove it. People now have access to more information, and if what companies say is not consistent with what they do, they will lose credibility. And it's not easy to get it back. 
 
#3 Build customer loyalty. If we are able to align the values of the company with those of our customers, the chemistry between both parties is assured. This is the so-called shared value that reinforces customer loyalty and better identifies the company's purpose. If your company is also committed to the growth and good working environment of its employees, to having a positive impact on society and to caring for and respecting the environment, consumers will value it much more highly and will be more loyal to it. 
 
#4 Sustainability by example. Actions as simple as not using air conditioning when it is not needed, or not printing documents unless it is necessary, or turning off devices that are not being used, among other things, considerably reduce costs and you will also be reducing the negative impact of your operations. Going one step further is simple, such as encouraging people to cycle, walk or take public transport to work. It's about analysing and changing everyday decisions. 
 
#5 Increased access to finance by incentivising fundraising. Socially responsible practices reduce the company's contingencies and allow it to control them, reducing any possible risk. In this way, they offer added value that increases the value of their shares and reinforces the confidence of potential investors. 
 
#6 Increases the attraction and retention of talent. When people enjoy and value the work they are doing, their performance and loyalty to the company increases considerably. Today's society likes to be part of organisations that respect the world, and also invest capital and time to continue training its members. 
 
#7 Improves the working environment. When companies have a culture of Corporate Social Responsibility, they can easily promote volunteering among their employees and encourage them to collaborate with non-profit organisations. Altruism is an intangible that every company should promote. By improving people's motivation, skills and self-esteem, we foster pride in being part of the company and reinforce their involvement and commitment to the organisation. 
 
You are probably wondering what kind of actions companies can take as part of their ESG plans. Here are a few examples: 
 
1. Support employee involvement in social causes. 
2.       Make responsible use of energy, e.g. by promoting the use of renewable energies such as solar energy. 
3.       Collaborate with local NGOs to contribute to sustainability by raising funds for charitable causes. 
4.       Promote and support recycling, both in terms of company activities and by raising awareness among employees. 
5.       Organise events, acts or solidarity races to raise funds for a social cause that has an impact on my locality. 
6.       Ensure equal opportunities in the company. 
7.       Implement measures to reconcile work and family life. 
8.      Align my suppliers with a system of good practices that guarantees the sustainability of my production or services chain. 
 
11. Apply transparency principles and policies with my customers.  
Companies that are aware of ESG principles tend to generate levers that truly transform society. ESG plans are as important as the business itself, and demonstrate those values that we all seek as citizens and consumers concerned about the environment and social impact. 
At DA Advisers we help you to implement your ESG strategies and generate shared value with your stakeholders, enhancing countless advantages such as those we have just described. Being a socially responsible company adds value and differentiation to your brand and your organisation.  
 
Do not hesitate, facts make the difference.  
 
 
Rafael Soler 
 
Consultant for socially responsible companies.