Today, the divide between for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations is narrowing as even for-profit businesses are embracing the idea of a triple bottom line. Success isn’t simply a matter of how much money you make, but also the effort you put into attaining it responsibly. Even for-profit organizations can help make the world a better place. Here are three ways all businesses can work towards a greater good.
Make employee welfare and well-being a priority
More and more businesses are starting to understand that your employees will generally treat your customers the way you treat your employees. If you want your employees to take good care of your customers, then you need to take good care of them. While taking care of your own employees is a good start, it is also not enough. High profile businesses are coming under fire for using cheap overseas labor and turning blind eye to exploitative labor practices. If truly want to make the world a better place, pay your employees well and make sure your vendors and suppliers are as well.
Always be on the lookout for more sustainable options
Business is hard on the environment. From mountains of disposable plates, cups, utensils and straws to the chemical waste created by manufacturing, supplying goods for millions of people can take a strong toll on the planet. Responsible businesses are always looking for ways to minimize their impact. From the 7,000 trees planted at Apple’s new flagship headquarters to swimwear manufacturer’s efforts to create a sustainable fabric, the most successful businesses are doing everything they can to lessen their impact on planet earth.
Have a social mission
Tom’s shoes pioneered the idea of buying something for yourself that results in something being given to someone that really needs it. Starbucks has a long history of showing preferential treatment to veterans and even hiring felons. Nike has a longstanding history of supporting and facilitating athletic participation at the earliest levels and youngest ages. Whether you invest in your own community or the global village, making the world a better place means having a broader vision than just simply building your bottom line. If you need more of an incentive, however, research shows that charitable giving actually increases wealth rather than diminishing it.