Social impact rewards work each ways: they reward those that do good and encourage others to do the identical. By recognizing social and environmental leadership and innovation, these award-winning organizations contribute to constructing a good, diverse and conscientious market of the long run.
There are many advantages to receiving an award in your social or environmental impact. In addition to the popularity you get from just winning the award, it opens the door to exclusive networking opportunities (New Customers, amongst others. Some even have a pleasant money prize.
To be rewarded for corporate social and environmental change, you should understand the character of those rewards—not to say find out how to get your organization going.
Rewards for social and environmental impact: recognition for understanding
While each award is exclusive, the main focus areas cover specific topics that change based on global issues and climate. In general, they recognize social and environmental leadership, impact and innovation.
Corporate awards often give attention to organizational leaders who create unique partnerships and success models by leveraging their influence and connections. They are changemakers who encourage others to do good.
Other awards prioritize firms that develop latest, progressive products or business models that may address specific societal or environmental needs. A great example is the so-called Boston College Corporate Social Responsibility Innovation Awardsthat recognize firms for environmental innovations and progressive program designs.
Others proceed to emphasise social justice and community development. The two often go hand in hand, and company award winners show how creating equitable opportunities to deal with inequalities results in tangible social impacts – normally in a repeatable and scalable way.
Only certain social impact awards will apply to your small business. If your organization shouldn’t be focused on sustainability, climate change or nature conservation, there is no such thing as a point in looking Environmental Finance prize.
However, it’s increasingly common for award organizations to include social and environmental criteria into their award programs, so business owners should follow suit.
An awesome example is the so-called Schwab Social Entrepreneurship Foundation. While they’ve different award categories, they need to see all nominated organizations consider the environmental impact of their activities, diversity and inclusion governance, and creativity in using technology to maximise impact.
Embedding social responsibility within the business strategy
So the character of your organization, from its policies to the way it does business, will all the time be considered when applying for a company responsibility award.
For example, to receive environmental impact awards or another modern impact award, you could use environmentally friendly business practices. You will need to work with other organizations and suppliers who show the identical commitment to protecting the environment as you. Simply put, not only attitude. Bring your values into every little thing you do.
You must also display a commitment to the welfare of your employees. Build diversity and inclusion into your policies and procedures. Maintain worker recognition and keep in mind worker values when creating corporate responsibility programs and inspiring worker engagement—for instance, by matching donations and providing employees with multiple opportunities to volunteer locally.
A socially responsible body is on the intersection of those core values. Consider integrating innovation, equality, impact and sustainability into your practices.
Consider the impact campaigns you’ll be able to run in your organization. Trophies and awards that reward employees for volunteer hours, progressive ideas that reflect your organization’s social values, or that help implement programs that may encourage you to make an impact at home.
Navigating the award and selection process
Finally, don’t forget about all of the formalities and plans related to applying for the prize.
Only certain rewards can be found for certain forms of businesses. Some are for non-profits only, others for-profit, and others for certified social enterprises. And some, just like the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, recognize businesses of all styles and sizes. Don’t miss out on eligibility and do not waste time on an application that will not even be considered.
Be aware of nomination deadlines and requirements. Many awards, including the Schwab Foundation Social Innovation Award, require a nomination by someone apart from yourself. Give yourself loads of time to succeed in out to suppliers, community stakeholders, and others who would consider a nomination for the award.
Whether you’re chosen or not, please try again. Maintain a socially responsible business culture by looking for feedback, making improvements and striving for continuous improvement.
