There are significant CSR implications in Statusphere, the latest offering from trendwatcher.com – one of the world’s leading consumer trends firms. Based on the premise that “consumers are finding increasingly diverse ways to get their status fix,” it identifies five new areas in which consumers are vying for bragging rights.
One of them is Generosity. Perhaps as a reaction to the impact of greed on the latest economic meltdown, giving now trumps owing as a mark of prestige. Not only are consumers feeling a need to express their more altruistic side, they want to share the experience with others. Giving circles, crowdsourced giving and collaborative giving models abound. Online initiatives that allow individuals to choose the beneficiaries of corporate philanthropy are becoming increasingly common.
As it relates to CSR, many companies are recognizing that corporate philanthropy alone isn’t enough. A more strategic approach dictates a path of stakeholder engagement where customers are an integral part of the giving program – helping to make making decisions and given an opportunity to share experiences. (See Pepsi’s Refresh Project)
Another area identified is “Green Credentials and Unconsumption.” Increasingly consumers are anxious to demonstrate their “eco-credentials” to their peers. The latest ecological symbols and obviously eco-friendly products are taking on the status previously reserved for labels like D&G, Coach and others. And ecologically friendly services (from landscaping to roofing to banking) are taking on the same appeal. Just as in the case of Generosity, consumers are seeking the forums to tell the world they are truly green with envy. The days of the gas guzzling SUV as a badge of accomplishment are gone. Hybrid is the new hot auto label as consumers try to outdo their peers by consuming less.
Most companies have recognized that the green plank is essential to any CSR platform. The truly enlightened players are providing stakeholders with products and services that can express both the company’s and the individual’s eco-interests. Moreover, they are providing ways for stakeholders to share the experience by becoming actively involved and expressing their opinions. (See TD Friends of the Environment)
Passion Points:
- Meaningfully involve employees and customers in your company’s philanthropic efforts.
- Make sure your communications plan trumpets their successes and provides the forums for them to share their experiences
- Ensure that your company’s eco-initiatives are well publicized and well-known by employees.
- Wherever possible include a respected eco-certification with your green products and services
- Provide employees and consumers with ways to be active partners in your ecological or sustainability efforts.
Chuck English
Doing Good for Business 