Survey Finds Workers Want Ethical, Socially Responsible Companies

Acting ethically and in socially and environmentally responsible manners is the key to gaining top talent, according to a new Kelly Services Inc. study. Nearly 90 percent of respondents in the study said they are more likely to work for an organization perceived as ethically and socially responsible.

Companies that develop a culture of social responsibility send a powerful message about the type of talent they want to attract and the organizational norms they want to cultivate. They serve as a benchmark as to what is expected and are viewed favorably by prospective employees.

Among the study's other findings:

• 80 percent of respondents said they would be likely to work for an organization considered environmentally responsible.
• 53 percent of baby boomers said they would be prepared to forgo higher pay or a promotion to work for an organization with a good reputation.
• 48 percent of Gen Xers (ages 30 to 47) and 46 percent of Gen Yers (18 to 29 years) said they would forgo higher pay or a promotion to work for an organization with a good reputation.
• 36 percent say that in deciding where to work, policies aimed at addressing global warming are 'very important.'

Employees gain a sense of fulfillment when their employer is focused not only on the bottom line but also on practices that are good for the communities in which they operate. That translates to increased pressure for companies to meet higher standards of corporate and ethical behavior and to play an appropriate role on issues affecting the environment.

Kelly surveyed about 100,000 people in 34 countries throughout North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. More information on the survey is available.

Source: Workforce Management Magazine, Sherri Begin Welch, 10/2009