CSR: It’s time for tech leaders to step up! (Part one)
‘Brand Tech’ is not looking in great shape and although much of the criticism is unfounded, some of it holds water like the tax dodging methods of some of the tech giants and lack of transparency in the use of personal data. This is a pity, as tech companies inspire hope among all of us, particularly the younger generations, of a better future. However, this promise is often not met by a positive impact of companies in this sector on the environment and society. In short, there is insufficient evidence or visible action of tech companies implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to create a better future for us and the planet, including contributing to resolving the three main challenges that blight our modern world:
- the reduction of carbon emissions and the alarming risks of unprecedented global warming;
- the fast growing problem of packaging and non-biodegradable pollutants, including plastics poisoning our oceans, planet and our food chain;
- global poverty and growing income inequality in much of the developed and developing economies.
Tech corporate culture needs a rebrand; tokenistic CSR programs are not enough
In fact, it is all too evident that the Silicon Valley Tech ecosystem and culture, that has been emulated to a greater or lesser extent by emerging tech hubs around the world, is strongly rooted in a culture of ‘greed’, fast money and an obsessive focus on revenue maximization in the quickest time possible. Against this backdrop and given the rapid ROI/value realization of the vast majority of VCs investing in tech startups and scaleups, it is no surprise that most tech and digital companies don’t spend a lot of time thinking about their role in creating a better society and planet for future generations to enjoy.
Sceptics will argue that responsibility for dealing with these broader challenges rests with bigger, more established companies like manufacturing, FMCG and oil and gas majors. And of course, in many ways, they are right. All companies have a role to play in tackling the three challenges outlined above in a manner than moves beyond awareness raising, window dressing or tokenistic CSR programs.
Why ‘Brand Tech’ has a vital and unique role to play in solving the planets most pressing problems
However, I would argue that tech companies have a vital role to play in solving these planetary challenges for the following reasons:
- tech leaders will play a significant (arguably lead) role in shaping our future economy and society;
- these sectors (including verticals such as biotech & life sciences, fintech, robotics and agritech) have the talent, creativity and entrepreneurial drive to tackle these challenges;
- tech and digital are already shaping the minds and habits of our youth in a profound way; in fact, in many respects they are becoming just as influential as educators and even parents.
Part two considers how tech companies can integrate broader economic, environmental and societal considerations into their strategy and leadership development programs, ensuring they are central to their business purpose and goals, rather than a reluctant ‘bolt on’.
About the Author
Leadership Consultant | Executive Coach | Business Psychologist
James has over 25 years’ experience working with leaders and organizations internationally to optimize their performance, talent and future success. He has worked with leaders from diverse sectors, countries and cultures. Clients have included Commvault, Equinor, Gilead Sciences, GSK, PhotoBox, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Novo Nordisk, Oracle, Sainsbury’s, Swiss Re, Tesco, Yahoo! and WSP.
James has set-up and successfully grown several of his own businesses, including Strengthscope®, a global strengths assessment and consulting business. As Joint Founder and MD, he grew Strengthscope® into a market leader before selling his stake in the business in 2018.
James is a regular speaker on leadership, coaching, assessing and developing talent and the future of work. He has contributed a wide range of publications in these areas. His most recent book, Optimize Your Strengths, explores how leaders can transform their organizations by inspiring people to shine and deliver exceptional results.
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