Cover Story
• Can the CSO clearly define what they strive to change in the community ? Has their previous work been aligned with its mission or were they jumping from one area of work to another ? Good organizations know exactly who they are and what their role is in the society . Be aware if the organization cannot clearly explain what they do and stand for in a few sentences .
• Ask the organization what results they have achieved in the area you want to support . Smart companies want to work with an organization that has a demonstrated commitment and results in the targeted area .
• Transparency and accountability are one of the key aspects of work for a CSO . The work of any CSO is public , thus it must be open to share information about their work , finances , governance and more . Check whether the CSOs regularly publishes its annual reports on its web site or at least provides it to you at the meeting . Check whether the reports provide details on their activities and finances .
• Consider and discuss their finances . Regardless of its size , you should look for organizations that have continuous operations and whose finances are used for the public good in line with their mission . Ask how the organization minimizes the risk of abuse of funds that they collect .
• Ask about the governance and management structures . Make sure that the organization is independent of political party influence . Talk to them about how they ensure their activities protect the public good and how they handle potential conflicts of interest .
• Many perceive CSOs to be like any other service provider that implements a company project . But the CSOs are a different animal , with unique values and knowledge . They are established to serve the community and the public good , not the company . Thus , work with them on how you can jointly achieve the societal change you want to see .
• Companies hide from organizations that are critical of your company , in particular of its environmental and social impact . It is their job to represent citizens ’ interests and express their concerns . Companies should be open for dialogue , even on sensitive issues . Help the organizations understand your company ’ s position and challenges .
• Don ’ t expect CSOs to do your PR and marketing ; it is not their job . To maximize the benefits from your CSR initiatives on the company ’ s image , commit to building effective partnerships that bring real societal impact . Then promotion will practically take care of itself .
Fall Autumn 2016 2016 / Issue / Issue 51 51
Cover Story
• Can the CSO clearly define what they strive to change in the community ? Has their previous work been aligned with its mission or were they jumping from one area of work to another ? Good organizations know exactly who they are and what their role is in the society . Be aware if the organization cannot clearly explain what they do and stand for in a few sentences .
• Ask the organization what results they have achieved in the area you want to support . Smart companies want to work with an organization that has a demonstrated commitment and results in the targeted area .
• Transparency and accountability are one of the key aspects of work for a CSO . The work of any CSO is public , thus it must be open to share information about their work , finances , governance and more . Check whether the CSOs regularly publishes its annual reports on its web site or at least provides it to you at the meeting . Check whether the reports provide details on their activities and finances .
Transparent organizations are less likely to misuse company support and engage in irresponsible behavior .
• Consider and discuss their finances . Regardless of its size , you should look for organizations that have continuous operations and whose finances are used for the public good in line with their mission . Ask how the organization minimizes the risk of abuse of funds that they collect .
• Ask about the governance and management structures . Make sure that the organization is independent of political party influence . Talk to them about how they ensure their activities protect the public good and how they handle potential conflicts of interest .
There are many other aspects that are crucial for trustworthy CSOs . To assist the companies in selecting partners and better understanding CSOs , Konekt has developed a certification mechanism called , “ CSO Trust Mark .” It will be granted to organizations that comply with certain requirements related to transparency , accountability , fundraising practices and other aspects of their operations . The CSOs ’ information will be available on a web platform that will be easily accessible for the companies . Brokerage services will be also available . In its work over the years , Konekt has observed the following common company misconceptions when working with CSOs :
• Many perceive CSOs to be like any other service provider that implements a company project . But the CSOs are a different animal , with unique values and knowledge . They are established to serve the community and the public good , not the company . Thus , work with them on how you can jointly achieve the societal change you want to see .
• Companies hide from organizations that are critical of your company , in particular of its environmental and social impact . It is their job to represent citizens ’ interests and express their concerns . Companies should be open for dialogue , even on sensitive issues . Help the organizations understand your company ’ s position and challenges .
• Don ’ t expect CSOs to do your PR and marketing ; it is not their job . To maximize the benefits from your CSR initiatives on the company ’ s image , commit to building effective partnerships that bring real societal impact . Then promotion will practically take care of itself .
AMCHAM MAGAZINE 11