Companies that have a strong culture in corporate social responsibility (CSR) can increase their chances of attracting this group of potential employees: Millennials are considered to be more civic-minded and with a strong sense of community, both local and global. Companies can set themselves apart in the eyes of Millennials by making sure their CSR programs are not only strong, but are communicated to the right group of people.
So how do companies attract this social-minded group? One of the best ways is to reach them where they live — that is, online. Don’t hide your CSR efforts under multiple drop-downs, said Peggy Anderson, vice president of global talent acquisition at Blackbaud, in an article for HR Dive.
“Featuring CSR programs prominently on your website and career site allow interested job seekers and curious consumers to see what you’re about right away, perhaps even before you’ve had a chance to talk to them or discuss publicly,” she says. And don’t forget to feature your CSR efforts via other outlets online: social media, bylined articles, press releases, etc.
Anderson also suggests that companies document their impact, including examples, highlights, and results. Include this information in recruiting materials and media outreach. Don’t forget to embrace the “local angle” rather than just having a global view of CSR, as Millennials like opportunities to support local communities.
Finally, make sure potential candidates (and for that matter, current employees) understand the link between “profit and purpose.” CSR programs can’t exist in a vacuum and companies are increasingly making commitments to show the links between CSR programs and positive business outcomes, either those that add directly to the bottom line or via building a reputation as a “good corporate citizen.”
Nearly two-thirds of Millennials (64 percent) say they strongly consider a company’s social and environmental commitments when deciding where to work, according to a Cone Communications study in 2016.
