Konkurencyjny, mały oraz odpowiedzialny - filozofia społecznej odpowiedzialności biznesu dla małych i średnich firm w Unii Europejskiej

Abstract

Several recent studies suggest that it is critical for companies to not only develop CSR initiatives but to communicate them as well. A free market relies on the flow of information so that investors, consumers and employees can make educated decisions. As an added benefit, communicating socially and environmentally responsible practices and policies can improve a company’s reputation and competitive advantage, which can increase a company’s success. Some consumer analysts argue that reputation is everything. A company with a high-quality product but poor social performance record will face more challenges to success than a company with a high-quality product and a good reputation. Maintaining a strong corporate reputation goes beyond regulatory compliance. The companies that exceed legal requirements and respond to the public’s expectations of acceptable business practices are the ones, who maintain and enhance their admirable reputations. The new global marketplace is crowded, competitive and cluttered with messages and information. A company needs not only to identify what makes it unique, but also to communicate those differences to interested audience. Research conducted by MORI shows that initiating sustainable, progressive and socially responsible practices helps companies improve brand identity and be more competitive . Stakeholders are willing to support companies whose policies and management practices match their own personal values. Therefore, objective of this paper is to provide the reader with all necessary information concerning the theory of Corporate Social Responsibility and to show facts regarding actual use of presented new management philosophy. It will be demonstrated that corporate responsibility is no longer a luxury for big companies and that in today's global economy, it is critical for companies, including SMEs, to embrace social and environmental responsibility in order to meet the demands of their investors, consumers, employees, and communities they serve. Throughout the years, European Union has demonstrated its interest and great support for philosophy of CSR, which can be noticed in several initiatives and programmes launched in order to promote and sustain the idea. Especially a great deal of attention has been given to small and medium-sized enterprises. Corporate Social Responsibility has become not only one of the ways that can contribute to sustainable development, but also a potential drive for SMEs. On the example of European Union I would like to show how gradually implemented CSR initiatives help small business to become more competitive and successful. Secondly, the intention of my paper is to encourage small and medium seized entrepreneurs to incorporate the idea of good practices in the philosophy of their business, and in their daily actions.