According to research carried out by Global Tolerance, almost 42% of the workforce wants to work for companies that have a positive impact on the world.
Workers are demanding change. Young people want to join companies with ethical and eco-friendly practices. For many, a desire to help others and the planet trumps the desire for a higher salary. But it can be hard knowing where to start.
In this article, we will be sharing how to find ethical and eco-friendly companies to work for as a young professional.
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Certified B Corporations
Companies with a Certified B certification have undergone a thorough assessment of their environmental and social commitments. They have been independently assessed by a third party to ensure their business meets the highest standards of environmental and social performance, accountability, and transparency.
Simply put, certified B corporations care about the environment and are committed to bettering society. Holding a certification shows their commitment to more sustainable practices and social efforts, giving you peace of mind that they really do care and really are doing the best they can.
There are a wide range of sectors that are Certified B corporations, and you can browse them in the searchable directory to find the best one for you.
Filter Your Job Search
Often, young people are searching for something in particular. This might be a job that showcases corporate social responsibility, has great initiatives that support disabled employees, promote mental and physical wellbeing, and hire/support people from all races, sexual orientations, and identities.
If you are keen to filter your job search to specific requirements, Vercida.com is a great website to use. Here you can filter all of the options above and more to find an organization you’d feel happy and comfortable working for.
Green Job Search
If you are looking for a job that will help look after the planet, care for the environment, and make the world a better place – check out GreenJob. One of the largest job boards available, GreenJob lets you search for new green job opportunities in your local area.
While some green jobs will require specific skills, such as environmental educator, solar engineer, or organic gardener. Other positions, such as graphic designer, content creator, or accountant, work to support the internal operations of a green organization. So, whether you have certain qualifications or not, you are sure to find a job that allows you to work for the betterment of the planet.
Meet Companies in Person
Sometimes, it can be difficult to know how ethical or eco-friendly a company really is until you pay them a visit. Unfortunately, there are plenty of organisations out there that are all talk and no action. So, before you accept a job offer, pay your potential workplace a visit.
As Stefan Siegal, Founder of Not Just a Label, says, “You will find that company culture is apparent from the first email you will receive from them. When you visit their office and meet the staff you will also get a good understanding if they are aligned with your values or not.”
If they are aligned with your values then great. And if not, you just continue your search elsewhere.
Speak to People Inside Your Network
If you aren’t on social media, get signed up. Sites like Twitter and LinkedIn are great spaces to connect with other people, chat informally with companies, and reach out to entrepreneurs who inspire you.
Another great platform is Clubhouse, launched in 2020, an invitation-only social media platform where users can communicate in ‘rooms’ via voice chat only. Rooms can accommodate up to thousands of leading entrepreneurs and industry professionals where you can participate through speaking and listening.
Related Read: The Entrepreneurial Mindset
It might seem like an obvious point but speaking to people inside your network is a great way to find a company to work for.
We’ve also built an inclusive, supportive community where talent is inspired and empowered via our Goodwall app. Download for free — perfect for high school students, college undergraduates, university students, apprentices, entrepreneurs, and young professionals looking to build a meaningful network.
Identify any connections (these could be past colleagues or friends) who might be involved in the organisations you want to know more about. Take the time to ask what their experiences of a company have been, any advice they might have, and whether they have any connections of their own who could help.
Having these conversations with other people in your network is a great way to find out whether your values fit with an organisation and whether it’s a place you’d like to work one day.
Search for Ethical Startups
Ethical startups are fantastic companies to join as they are passionate, meaningful, and allow you to learn about all aspects of a business. Sure, you might have to start on a lower salary but it’s worth it to join an organisation working to incite positive environmental and social change.
The best place to find brand new work opportunities is Work in StartUps.
Here you will find brand new companies looking for passionate employees to join them in changing the world. If you want to make a difference, ethical startups might be for you!
Related Read: Best Ways to Get Money for Startups & Ideas
Final Words
Finding ethical and eco-friendly companies to work for can be a challenge. After all, how many organisations actually do what they say on paper? Sadly, not many. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t find a job with a fantastic organisation.
By following our advice, you will find exciting new opportunities with ethical and eco-friendly companies that are changing the world for the better, one day at a time.