Young professionals tell companies to get responsible or get stuffed

Research undertaken by BT has highlighted the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) amongst young professionals. More than a third (35.4 per cent) of those surveyed claimed that working for a caring and responsible employer was more important to them than the salary they earned - and a startling 44 per cent said they would discount an employer if they didnít have a good CSR reputation.

Despite being a relatively new business function for some companies, 99 per cent of the young professionals surveyed knew what the term meant. Other key findings included:

Nearly half (48.5 per cent) felt so strongly about companies having CSR polices and acting responsibly that they claimed it should be compulsory.

Opinion was split about where companies should be focusing their CSR efforts, however 33 per cent considered the environment the most important, edging out market innovation, workplace commitments (flexible working, staff welfare) and community investment.

25.5 per cent believed business had the most influence on the future of our planet, which was second only to government (36.7 per cent).

Alison Garner, CSR communications manager at BT, said ìThese results reflect our experience at BT ñ that young professionals are increasingly looking at CSR when considering which companies and brands they might work for. Not only is it important to have a solid CSR policy, but it is also increasingly important for companies to communicate what they are doing as it is an area which can undoubtedly provide competitive advantage.î

BT has been focussed on CSR for many years. It has been rated number 1 in the telecommunications sector in the Dow Jones Global Sustainability Index for the last six years and this year was named ëCompany of the Yearí by Business in the Community. For further information about BTís CSR activity visit: