From Guest Blogger John Baird: Building a Sustainable Small Business

Taking care to reduce your carbon footprint as a business is only part of the equation when it comes to sustainability. You need to build strong connections with your employees and develop an awareness of the impact your business has on society, at the same time as creating lasting financial value – no small task.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a much-used phrase coined by large conglomerates to describe their mission, and offers consumers an insight into what they stand for as a business.

But what about smaller businesses and individual entrepreneurs who also want to make a difference? To get a better view of the possibilities sustainability brings, let’s look at what you need to consider when building a sustainable small business.

Ideals for sustainability

Becoming more energy efficient

Reducing your carbon footprint can be as simple as changing to energy-efficient light bulbs, but eco-energy companies can also offer long-term benefits for small businesses. Whether you want to invest for the long-term in alternative energy sources or simply align yourself with an eco-provider, becoming energy efficient should be one of the first steps towards sustainability.

Using technology to reduce the need for travel

Significant long-term cost-savings are possible for businesses that choose the right technology. If you travel regularly on business, video conferencing and webinars can transform your working week without compromising on customer service or future sales.

Being active within the local community

Your business reputation will be enhanced by adopting sustainable practices and connecting with the local community. Not only that, consumers are more likely to support a business that gives something back, tries to reduce its negative impact on the environment, and treats its staff well.

Taking a collaborative approach by pooling resources and supporting other small businesses in their efforts to become sustainable is a good option for micro-companies and individual entrepreneurs.

Engaging with staff to build a lasting relationship and increase retention

Choose to engage and motivate employees by offering flexible working practices, incentive schemes, and simple wellness programmes that encourage a healthy lifestyle. These don’t need to be expensive – the results will be seen on your bottom line with better attendance, increased productivity, and a generally happier workforce.

Educating yourself and employees on the benefits of sustainability in business

Bringing in experts to compare the impact on the environment of non-sustainable versus sustainable businesses is a good way to encourage and motivate staff to adopt the new policy.

E-learning also consolidates knowledge, with online courses complementing face-to-face training, as well as offering flexibility to learn without too much disruption during the working day.

The benefits of being a socially responsible business

You’ll be rewarded with a loyal customer base, and enthusiastic employees motivated to help you grow your business. Here are just a few of the other benefits:

• Becoming a recognisable brand within your community
• Increased sales
• Greater employee job satisfaction
• Lowered costs
• A streamlined and efficient business

With social responsibility being a key issue for consumers these days, and influencing many buying decisions, your ability to do good as a business may largely dictate your success. Shout about your efforts to become sustainable, and you’ll soon reap the rewards.

John Baird is a personal finance and insolvency expert from Scotland Debt Solutions. He specialises in advising people on how to manage their money and deal with their personal debt problems.