Skillsoft, a leading platform for transformative learning experiences, has released findings from its latest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Work Report. The study reveals that only 13% of surveyed working professionals say their organisations’ CSR commitments are driven by ‘doing the right thing’, a significant drop from 40% who said the same last year.
Instead, as altruism of the past gives way to external pressures, half of respondents shared that corporate CSR efforts are now primarily driven by customer feedback, government mandates and public perception.
Motivation aside, organisations and executive leaders are making CSR a greater priority. Two-thirds of respondents say CSR has become more important since last year and the largest portion said efforts are now being driven by the C-suite, a shift from last year’s findings that showed managers leading the charge. Under C-suite leadership, 55% of respondents also reported CSR budgets increasing for the second consecutive year, with training and education emerging as the top area of investment (41%).
When asked about the top three benefits of CSR investment, respondents cited improved brand recognition, business reputation and sales and customer loyalty, respectively.
“CSR has the potential to drive positive change for the world, but it must stem from genuine, meaningful action. When executed correctly, CSR programmes effectively balance purpose, product and profit to create shared value for all stakeholders – customers, investors and society at large,” said Michelle Boockoff-Bajdek, Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer, Skillsoft.