Exploring the links among corporate social responsibility, reputation, and performance from a multi-dimensional perspective

Abstract

This study examines the links among corporate social responsibility (CSR), reputation, and performance in hotel companies from a multidimensional perspective. Data were collected from 322 hotels in China and partial least squares equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed for a causal-predictive analysis. Study results reveal that CSR practices influence hotel reputation as seen from both international and local perspectives. CSR and reputation influence performance dimensions (accounting-based performance, market-based performance, and non-financial performance) differently. The research findings offer specific theoretical and practical implications for hotel managers. • CSR is defined via customer, employee, local-community, and environmental dimensions • CSR practices positively affect both short-term and long-term hotel performance • CSR practices have different impacts on different dimensions of hotel performance • Reputation has a mediating effect on the link between CSR and hotel performance. • Managers must focus more on non-financial performance to gain sustainable advantage.