HBR IdeaCast When Should Companies Weigh in on Contentious Issues?
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Feb 13, 2024 In this insightful discussion, Alison Taylor, a Clinical Associate Professor at NYU and author of "Higher Ground," explores how businesses should navigate social and political issues. She emphasizes the importance of aligning corporate messages with actions to avoid backlash. Taylor argues for involving employees in the decision-making process, especially in today's polarized climate. With real-world examples, she highlights the influence of Gen Z in shaping corporate accountability and the necessity of authentic engagement in a turbulent era.
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Reasons for Increased Business Involvement
- Businesses are drawn into sociopolitical debates due to social media, political dysfunction, and shifting values.
- These factors create pressure for companies to engage, reflecting stakeholder capitalism's rise and evolving expectations.
Early Corporate Stances
- Companies began taking stances on issues like the North Carolina bathroom bill and the Paris Climate Agreement.
- This led to rhetoric about CEOs as societal leaders and fueled stakeholder capitalism discussions.
Global Consistency Challenges
- Global consistency in corporate stances is challenging, as different markets have varying expectations.
- Companies face scrutiny regarding hypocrisy and 'say-do' gaps, making it difficult to navigate global issues.
