Jason E Fisher says several professionals consider corporate social responsibility roles to be on the upper rung of career paths. Unfortunately, it isn’t an easy industry to start in or switch into, because of how limited CSR roles still are in the industry. It is, however, quickly attracting the attention of companies all over the world. So, likely, you will soon have a lot of choices if you enter the field now. Here are the top tips for anyone considering a career in corporate social responsibility. So that he or she can help businesses to formulate and implement robust CSR strategies for the betterment of the local community.
Not a Static Role
When someone says CSR, they typically use it as an umbrella word to describe several activities. How companies approach CSR is often entirely up to upper management, and it being such a new field means guidelines are hard to find. Typically, someone handling CSR could be overlooking the company’s investment (time and money) into community welfare initiatives, employee volunteering programs, sustainability, and environmental efforts, or trusts and foundations involved with charitable donations. Jason E Fisher says that you could also be working as a consultant providing advice to firms looking to kick-start their CSR initiatives.
Complex Skill Requirements
When you apply for a job, you want to put your best foot forward. And present relevant skills that add value to the company. CSR is a complex, multidimensional field that requires proficiency in several areas. You must possess the following skills:
Interpersonal Skills and Communication: You must be a proficient communicator, able to convey complex ideas effectively in several different mediums. This is important not only for justifying or pitching your ideas to upper management. But also to tailor your pitches and messages for different audiences. Further, you will be expected to work with several departments, and collaboration is a key CSR trait. You must display leadership qualities and go out of your way to inspire and command attention.
Analysis and Action: You must have an analytical mind that can turn research and insights from data into actionable intelligence for future initiatives. If your CSR budget is tight, you must also understand the best ways. To spend the funds and good business justifications for them.
Domain Knowledge and Business Acumen: You must understand the niche your business operates in and be able to explain what it can do for the causes you promote. An understanding of the industry, if demonstrated in a job interview, will earn you plaudits. Further, CSR initiatives can be spearheaded by corporate coalitions of multiple organizations. So you must know what allies to pick and how to work with them. Research, strategy, marketing acumen, and sustainability are all important for landing a CSR role.
Invest in Branding Advises Jason E Fisher
Your online presence is a much more holistic profile than your resume. Keep an updated LinkedIn profile, and share your knowledge and thoughts online, be it on your blog or social media. Build a healthy online presence to boost your discoverability and impress prospective hiring managers.
Conclusion: Networking is Essential
Honing your professional image is important, but you also need to put yourself out there. Attend events and conferences to build a robust professional network. Referrals and word of mouth go a long way in the hiring process today, and you can get to learn a lot and grow as a person and a professional by speaking to people who are doing the things you would like to do. You will soon get the chance to help out businesses chalk out their Corporate Social Responsibility or CSR strategies and boost community outreach.