Corporate Social Responsibility is not Public Relations

Corporate Social Responsibility is not Public Relations 

Many businesses undertake CSR not because they want to, but because they have to. Others, want to, but they don’t know how to execute a great CSR strategy in a way that does not appear to be attention-seeking (read: fake, insincere). It’s a dilemma for brands, regardless where they sit on the spectrum of willingness. And, with much of it being about ‘perception’, engagement with stakeholders in an authentic way, it is essential to develop a strategy which reinforces a positive reputation, as opposed to provoking questions regarding motivation and outcomes.

We are often asked (instructed) by clients to include flimsy CSR initiatives into an overall campaign, and for many of us in the industry, cringe at some of the approaches made. And many times, the initiative simply falls flat!

So, what drives a good CSR campaign, and how should we approach this?

Orchan Director Dr Craig J Selby had the chance to speak to British author and PR industry expert Sangeeta Waldron about her views on CSR, and in particular, her recently launched book “Corporate Social Responsibility is not Public Relations”. 

Check out the chat, and do drop us your thoughts on making CSR relevant and real!