CSR in Recruitment

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is becoming an increasingly discussed workplace topic. CSR illustrates a corporation's commitment to citizenship by implementing policies focused on the betterment of society. Since CSR has emerged as an important and expected corporate initiative, it is imperative that companies incorporate their commitment to CSR into their recruitment practices.

When reviewing your recruitment strategy for 2008, consider the following ways to include and emphasize your CSR commitment:

• Include community acts on your corporate website. Not only is it smart to illustrate your company's CSR efforts on your website, but it is also wise to link to this portion of the site on recruitment portals. Candidates almost always research a company's industry, but CSR information may be overlooked. Those who include it may have a recruiting advantage.
• State company values during recruitment. Job opening descriptions typically include job requirements, but infrequently state company values. Stating your company's values illustrates that your organization is not solely focused on business and profit, but on character, ethics and community involvement as well.
• Incorporate company values in candidate interviews. Talk to candidates about your company's values during job interviews. Have candidates offer personal stories of times in which they have illustrated your company's values. To truly give meaning to your corporate values, they should be considered when making hiring decisions.
• Show candidates that you practice CSR. Do not hesitate to show candidates awards, photographs and other items illustrating your company's dedication to CSR, especially when touring your facility. Your company's commitment to the community could be the differentiator that allows your company to land an important hire.

Many factors are considered when job hunting. Candidates evaluate compensation, company atmosphere, benefits, opportunities for growth and other important criteria when determining whether or not to make a career move. Your company's CSR initiatives may be the differentiator that helps you win the war for talent. Since candidates are interested in being a part of their company as well as their community, don't miss out on top talent by neglecting to highlight your CSR efforts.