PEORIA MAGAZINE July 2023

COMMENTARY

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN BUSINESS Balancing profit and purpose for long-term success

BY DEE BROWN

S ocial responsibility in business has become a significant issue that has gained prominence in recent years. The concept refers to the responsi bility of a business to engage in prac tices that are beneficial to society as a whole. It has emerged as a crucial topic because of the pressure on businesses to focus on both profit and purpose. Why is social responsibility significant? Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become an essential aspect of modern businesses trying to convey a positive image to customers, shareholders and employees. CSR is a way of demonstrating that a company is committed to the betterment of society, the environment, and the economy. Research has shown that companies that engage in CSR practices experience long-term benefits that include increased sales revenue, customer loyalty and positive word-of-mouth publicity. CSR has become a fundamental aspect of strategy for businesses to maintain a competitive advantage.

How do you balance profit and purpose? Businesses are under pressure to bal ance profit and purpose considerations as consumers expect companies to conduct themselves ethically, prioritizing the betterment of society as well as making money. These two goals can be achieved through a variety of strategies. First, companies can examine their supply chains to ensure that they are not contributing to environmental degradation or human rights abuses. They can partner with suppliers that share similar values on sustainability and ethical practices, create sustainable supply-chain networks and reduce their carbon footprint by switching to renewable energy sources. Second, companies must commit to transparency in their operations, ensuring that their products and/or services align with their values. This means that compa nies must take an active role in ensuring that their operations are not contributing to environmental destruction, community displacement, and other social challenges.

Third, companies can engage in philanthropic activities or social investments that give back to their respective communities. Corporate philanthropy benefits companies, as it portrays them as responsible citizens that care about the communities in which they operate. In conclusion, investing in social responsibility initiatives generates long-term benefits. Striking a balance between profit and purpose is crucial for the success of businesses and an integral aspect of the modern business landscape.

Dee Brown is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, philanthropist and host of the WTVP program “Self-Made with Dee Brown CEO.” A member of the Forbes Business Council, he is president and CEO of The P3 Group Inc. in Memphis, the nation’s largest minority-owned

development and construction firm

JULY 2023 PEORIA MAGAZINE 97