Why should employees prioritize sustainability in their future job prospects? The reasons extend beyond mere altruism. Here are some compelling factors:
Long-term Security
Research indicates that companies committed to sustainability are more adaptable to shifts in the business landscape, ensuring their long-term financial viability and providing employees with greater job security. For them “employee are our most precious asset” is not only a claim but a long-term investment.
Job Satisfaction
A focus on employee well-being translates into higher job satisfaction, reduced burnout, and a more conducive work environment. When employees feel valued and supported, they are more engaged, productive, and dedicated to the organization’s success.
Shared Values
For individuals who prioritize sustainability, joining organizations with a similar commitment to environmental and social impact enhances the significance they derive from their work. When evaluating potential employers, most workers consider the company’s values. As sustainability gains prominence, alignment with such values increases the likelihood of exposure to growth opportunities within the company. Employers benefit from a workforce that shares their values and aspirations.
Career Opportunities
The global transition to sustainable energy, as well as climate change adaptation, are expected to be “net job creators”, according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2023 report. Even more precise, ILO flagship report estimates in his World Employment and Social Outlook 2018 that 24 million jobs to open up in the green economy. Sustainability opens up new career avenues and enhances professional growth prospect
Professional Development
Having often a long-term view on their development and impact, they also offer vision to they employees who can therefore build development path demanding mid or even long-term investment. It necessitates contributions from various functional roles as regulations evolve and innovative business models emerge.
For employee and candidates, even if not all aware of those big numbers, they perfectly understand the challenge and whare they interest is.
The spotlight now falls on a company’s commitment to sustainability.
But what exactly does this entail?
It’s more than just a checkbox on a list of criteria; it’s a journey into the heart of an organization’s values and practices. Here are some questions to ask yourself, as an employee or a decision maker to be “employee future proof”.
Consider, for instance, the strategic decisions made within the boardroom. How are long-term sustainability goals communicated and integrated across different departments? Is sustainability ingrained in the very fabric of decision-making processes, echoing through every level of the organizational hierarchy?
Beyond the boardroom, we delve into the operations and value chain, exploring how sustainability is assessed and prioritized. Are there tangible collaborations aimed at fostering sustainability within the company’s broader ecosystem? From suppliers to consumers, how does sustainability permeate every link in the chain?
Yet, sustainability isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s about people too. How is remuneration structured to incentivize sustainability objectives? Are there educational programs in place to cultivate awareness and foster responsible consumption among employees?
In the realm of innovation and technology, we witness sustainability catalysing a wave of creativity and adaptation. How have sustainability strategies spurred the development of new business models and revenue streams? Can we pinpoint examples of products and services that directly contribute to sustainability targets?
Turning our gaze to the financial landscape, we explore the allocation of sustainability-related funding and the incorporation of non-financial metrics into reporting processes. How does the finance function navigate the delicate balance between profit and purpose, leveraging data and insights to drive meaningful change?
From marketing initiatives to governance structures, sustainability permeates every aspect of an organization’s identity. How does marketing drive consumer awareness of sustainability efforts, reshaping brand narratives and consumer behaviours? At the governance level, what mechanisms are in place to support and challenge sustainability initiatives, ensuring accountability and progress?
In the grand tapestry of our interconnected world, the choices we make as job seekers and consumers reverberate far beyond individual transactions. By consciously aligning our careers with companies committed to sustainability, we not only shape our personal trajectories but also influence the broader course of industries and economies. As we embark on this journey towards a more sustainable future, let us recognize the power inherent in our choices, knowing that each decision made today contributes to a world where sustainability thrives, fostering resilience, prosperity, and harmony for generations to come.
How the climate crisis is impacting jobs and workers | World Economic Forum (weforum.org)
World Employment and Social Outlook 2018: 24 million jobs to open up in the green economy (ilo.org)
What to ask future employers about sustainability — and why (ft.com)
Climate Legacy Commitment (ourclimatelegacy.org)
Choosing an Employer that Takes Sustainability Seriously | Oxford University Careers Service
