New research by Millward Brown (a research agency) and published in PR Week suggests consumers are unlikely to boycott a company’s products if it is perceived to have a poor social responsibility record. What a blow-out, considering 87% of Brits said they thought businesses should behave responsibly. The figures are much the same in the US.

Does this mean then that us small businesses should forget about any corporate responsibility initiatives we are taking on then? Certainly not in my opinion!

Being socially responsible with our business practices is essential for the long term health of our planet. Whether that’s recycling your waste paper, allowing your staff to do some charity work during office hours, or providing work experience for disadvantaged kids, whatever really. Not only is this good for the communities in which we live and work, it’s also seen to have a positive impact of recruitment and retention, staff motivation and it should also provide you with great public relations opportunities.

Abandon your CSR practices at your peril. If every small business makes even a small effort, the impact will be huge!