Companies are not the only ones taking part in the global movement on climate. The wheels are in motion for employees who want to make a difference by reaching the target of net zero by 2050.
There are plenty of things to consider when looking for a new job. And while factors like salary, location, benefits, opportunity, and culture are important, a new consideration is topping the list – people want companies committed to climate-positive action. And rightly so.
Employees who are doing their bit to fight climate change at home are now wondering how they can make the difference more tangible and that includes their workplace.
Whether employees are doing their bit or not, many companies are taking a more serious approach to sustainability, making employees a defining factor to their overall success. This move includes recruiting the next generation of talent who are willing to go the extra mile to reduce carbon emissions.
Companies who are willing to take a more holistic approach and utilise all necessary tools for the world to become a better place for future generations are attractive to employees who care.
Here’s a few questions climate-conscious employees are asking;
‘What’s this company really doing?’
Greenwashing – when an organisation spends more time and money on marketing itself as environmentally friendly than actually minimising its environmental impact – has unfortunately become a popular trend but misleading or false information does more harm than good.
According to a 2019 survey by Kin&Co 60% of respondents said CEOs should be the key persons to fight against the prevalence of climate change while 30 % agreed they would follow any initiatives CEOs have spearheaded.
Majority of these respondents are Millennials and Gen Z employees and the ones looking for companies that reflect their values and stand on climate change. Companies that have strong environmental commitment play a vital role in capturing these two generations’ interests.
Notable companies that are prioritising employees’ environmental performance include The Guardian and The Body Shop.
‘How’s this company setting goals?’
Behavioural science determines if companies genuinely care for the environment and people. However, psychological distance can hinder success of the initiative. This is the mindset where companies believe the problem with climate change isn’t really their problem.
Employees appreciate it when a business sets realistic goals and encourages employees to get involved and be part of the change. For example a company can support employees who aim to upskill by focusing on the green movement.
Companies who win in this area not only talk about big targets and numbers but about the cause behind the campaign to reach net zero.
‘Are these initiatives achievable?’
Committing to action is one thing, doing it is something else altogether. Some employees are motivated by companies and colleagues who are making consistent environmental efforts but grabbing their attention takes creativity and a willingness for the business to initiate change.
According to the report, Nudging and Pre-Environmental Behaviour, a company’s behaviour is the key to nudging people in creating a silent culture for change. Creating daily habits and arming people with achievable goals or a realistic roadmap, can help make environmental initiatives feel more achievable.
By engaging employees, customers, clients and stakeholders in conversations, businesses are able to build an active team making it possible to make a greater difference in the long run.
How do you rate your company’s policy on climate? Are you impressed and inspired by their actions or a little underwhelmed? Let us know in the comments.
