The following information is in regards to the linked article about Nike: http://business-ethics.com/2010/01/24/2154-nike-corporate-responsibility-at-a-tipping-point/
In the early 1990s Nike wasn't known for its sustainable corporate initiative and philanthropic behavior. In fact, it was the exact opposite. Nike was found responsible for running outsourced sweatshops in underdeveloped countries. Ever since the corporate scandal Nike, realizing the error of their ways, shifted gears and engaged in corporate citizenship, which has since, been very successful.
This change has undoubtedly altered the way employees view the company and had positive repercussions. Developing a successful corporate citizenship strategy and a more sustainable supply chain will help to motivate employees to perform well since they will be able to trust the corporation to make ethically sound decisions.
Nike CEO Mark Parker boldly stated, "That its time for the world to shift." "We see sustainability, both social and environmental, as a powerful path to innovation, and crucial to our growth strategies.” That being said, I am wondering what you all have to say about this shift and if Nike is correct that all businesses should be responsible not only for their own benefit, but also that of society. How it could affect the organizational structure of corporations both large and small? What implementations on the culture or organizational behavior need to be made in order to reach a state of corporate citizenship?
Posted By: Grant Luther
Mark Parker made a great decision to shift Nike’s corporate strategy to a sustainable, innovative, and environmental path. Not only will this decision benefit employees, but it will also have a great influence related to how Nike is viewed by their customers and the public eye. When most people see Nike they think of healthy people enjoying outdoor activities in the environment such as playing basketball, running, or walking. However, in the past Nike did paint a negative image of itself by operating “sweat shops” and essentially demonstrating little regard for healthy living. Since this time, Nike has created a better image of itself by promoting human health because of their admitted fault in operating outsourced sweatshop in underdeveloped countries. The elimination of these sweat shops has opened a new door to social, and environmental corporate strategy which will aid in Nike’s growth related to corporate social responsibility. We have learned in Organizational Behavior that great success has come for companies which have implemented corporate social responsibility in their everyday operations. This is because leaders of organizations must be high self-monitors of their companies by taking on the responsibility of their activities on customers, suppliers, employees, shareholders, and communities. Essentially, there are watchful eyes always on organizations at all times these days and a company, such as Nike, would not want to eliminate future business with anyone in their daily operations to a competitor because poorly conducted corporate social responsibility.
ReplyDelete-Zach Seibel