Corporate Responsibility Impresses Millennials, Survey Finds

Title: Aflac Corporate Social Responsibility Survey

Organization: Aflac

Summary: American consumers value companies they believe demonstrate a commitment to corporate social responsibility, according to a new survey by the insurance company Aflac.

That’s especially true for millennials: About 66 percent of millennial respondents said they are likely to invest in a company well-known for its corporate social-responsibility program, compared with 48 percent of adults older than 34. Eighty-two percent of millennials are likely to seek employment at a company recognized for its ethics, compared to 68 percent of people older than 34.

The survey, which analyzed the attitudes of 6,000 Americans, also yielded findings about the role social media plays in charitable giving. Two-thirds of respondents said social media is more effective in spreading awareness about charitable causes than eliciting donations.

The survey also found that:

• 75 percent of consumers said they would be happier to work for a company with a strong corporate social-responsibility program.
• 65 percent of respondents link diversity with a company’s ethical standards.
• 92 percent of millennials are more likely to purchase from an ethical company.
• Respondents ranked children’s health as the most important philanthropic cause.