Research demonstrates, and good sense dictates, that organizations benefit from a focus on corporate social and environmental responsibility or sustainability (CR). Some organizations have adopted a triple bottom line philosophy of people (social responsibility), planet (environmental sensitivity), and profit (economic viability). In the current economic landscape, competition is fierce. CR and telework can both enhance competitive advantage.
Increased global expansion drives competitive advantage by capitalizing on the advantages of a global marketplace; and a global organizational structure contributes to better service for global clients. In addition, tapping into geographically dispersed labor pools within or outside the current organization greatly increases the talent available to fill critical positions.
“Pull” factors for adopting CR policies include research demonstrating how a CR focus creates value for an organization and can contribute to a company's competitive advantage. A CR focus is also attractive to employees who wish to align their values with those of the organization in which they work. There are also “push” factors for adopting CR policies such as from “watchdog” groups and concerned stakeholders.
A focus on community involvement and volunteer activities are both components of CR. Reducing an organization’s environmental footprint is also a key component and instituting telework options is one obvious mechanism for doing so. A great number of companies have made strategic decisions to reduce real estate investment costs, thereby establishing a cadre of telecommuting employees. Complying with government regulations, along with a desire to demonstrate corporate environmental responsibility, have also increased telework options. Telecommuting greatly decreases the environmental footprint of an organization. Telework also presents options for recruiting and retaining top talent who wish to live in communities of their choice. Finally, in some form we are all Teleworkers in today’s world of distributed work with coworkers or with clients. Ensuring critical telework success factors are in place is a necessary component in today’s work “place.”
This presentation will explore various aspects of CR and telework, their interrelationships, and contributions to organizational outcomes that can guide organizations to make informed strategic decisions to drive greater success in challenging times.
Recertification Credit Hours Awarded: 1.0 General