 
Cecily O'Connor
RedwoodAge.com
Boomers haven't given up their commitment to socially responsible causes. A
new survey found them favoring jobs that produce ethical or social benefits.
| Generation |
Y |
X |
Boomers |
| Company's ethical conduct
'very important' |
65 |
72 |
77 |
| Willing to forgo pay,
promotion |
46 |
48 |
53 |
Compared to other generations, boomers are more likely to work for an
organization perceived as ethically and socially responsible, according to Kelly
Services, an employment agency.
Major public issues such as a company's reputation for strong ethical
practices have become critical factors when boomers and other workers are
choosing where to work. Almost 90 percent of all respondents said they are more
likely to work for an organization that is considered ethically and socially
responsible.
Boomers tend to be the most passionate about their beliefs. Little over half
are even prepared to forgo pay or promotion to work for an organization with a
good reputation.
Despite a tough economy and job-search environment, companies are very much
focused on having the right policies and practices in place to be more efficient
and keep existing staff happy. That includes companies such as Bristol
Meyers-Squibb, Mattel and Intel. which are among the 100 companies selected in
2009 for Corporate Responsibility Officer Magazine's 100 Best Corporate
Citizens list.
"Employees gain a sense of fulfillment when their employer is focused
not only on the bottom line but also on initiatives and practices which have a
connection with the communities in which they operate," said George Corona,
executive vice president and chief operating officer at Kelly Services.
Ethics Rule
In fact, concerns about ethical behavior outweigh concerns about the environment
by all generations when making employment choices.
"There is a great deal of pressure on organizations to meet higher
standards of corporate and ethical behavior and to play an appropriate role on
issues affecting the environment," Corona said.
About 80 percent of all respondents said they are more likely to work for an
organization that is considered environmentally responsible. For example, when
deciding where to work, a company's policies to address global warming are
considered "very important'" by 31 percent of Gen Y workers, rising to
35 percent for Gen X and 36 percent among boomers.
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