Continuing the conversation around ESG: empower your people

Written by Caitlin Roxburgh

Last week we talked about the knock-on effects of your firm’s attitudes towards ESG and how that can help or hinder your authenticity. This week, we’re following on with the most authentic way in which to convey your firm’s values.

That is, through your employees. The people who spend time communicating with colleagues will be the most honest promoters of good ESG comms.  

So, how can you make sure that your values are felt positively by employees? 

• Organise out of hours activities and clubs to foster an appreciation of work-life balance and a good culture across your firm.
• Assign agency over your ESG communications and policies through focus groups and steering committees. This will empower your employees to support and promote them, as will a culture of strong communication that encourages the sharing of stories and experiences between colleagues.
• Encourage engagement and reporting over LinkedIn. Many people who work in professional services feel bashful about promoting themselves and their firms on social media, but honest first-hand accounts around ESG are extremely beneficial to both.

Creating an environment in which your teams can share, communicate, and learn comfortably will result in a competent and consistent approach to clients, communities and beyond. 

“We rely on our people to be the conduit.” 

-Alexandra Knapp, Responsible Business Manager, Shakespeare Martineau 

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