Corporate Social Responsibility Efforts Research Articles

Women on board and business performance

Purpose This study aims to examine the association between women on board and business performance. It also aims to investigate the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and female directors on stock prices, including the function of female directors in moderating the CSR–market performance link that ultimately provides valuable insights into the impact of gender diversity on corporate boards. Design/methodology/approach Data from US publicly listed firms between 2000 and 2018 were collected and analysed using OLS regression, median regression, M-estimator regression and MM-estimator regression at 70% and 95% efficiency. In this study, firm market value was measured through Tobin’s Q, board diversity with ISS database and CSR strength and concern with the KLD database. Findings The results indicated that CSR positively impacts market performance by 3.1%, female board representation positively influences market performance by 4.8% and female board members strengthen the CSR–market performance relationship by 1.0% while playing a moderating role. Overall, these studies demonstrated the significance of female boards of directors for enhancing market performance. Research limitations/implications This study used the data of US-listed firms from 2000 to 2018. The results have contributed to the ongoing discussion about the importance of gender diversity in boards and its influence on firm success. Further research works are suggested to expand the analysis by including other countries or considering additional factors that may influence the association between CSR, board representation of women and market share. Practical implications This study is essential for investors, legislators and CSR institutions in developed countries. The favourable impact of female board presence on market performance and the enhancement of the CSR–market performance relationship highlight the necessity of encouraging gender diversity on boards of directors and CSR activities. Social implications This study emphasises the significance of gender balance on corporate boards in solving important social challenges including climate change, resource scarcity and gender equality. Companies can actively assist in addressing global issues and improving the well-being of stakeholders by promoting gender-diverse boards and encouraging CSR efforts. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first study demonstrating that gender diversity on corporate boards moderates the significant association between CSR performance and profitability in the USA. It has contributed to the expanding body of information regarding the moderating influence of female directors on firm value and stronger evidence for female directors in the governance of businesses.

The influence of digital platform on the implementation of corporate social responsibility: from the perspective of environmental science development to explore its potential role in public health.

This paper aims to explore the intersection of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and public health within the context of digital platforms. Specifically, the paper explores the impact of digital platforms on the sustainable development practices of enterprises, seeking to comprehend how these platforms influence the implementation of environmental protection policies, resource management, and social responsibility initiatives. To assess the impact of digital platforms on corporate environmental behavior, we conducted a questionnaire survey targeting employees in private enterprises. This survey aimed to evaluate the relationship between the adoption of digital platforms and the implementation of environmental protection policies and practices. Analysis of the survey responses revealed a significant positive correlation between the use of digital platforms and the environmental protection behavior of enterprises (), Moreover, the presence of innovative environmental protection technologies on these platforms was found to positively influence the enforcement of environmental policies, with a calculated impact ratio of (). An intermediary analysis highlighted that environmental innovation technology plays a mediating role in this process. Additionally, adjustment analysis showed that enterprises of various sizes and industries respond differently to digital platforms, indicating the need for tailored environmental policies. These findings underscore the pivotal role of digital platforms in enhancing CSR efforts and public health by fostering improved environmental practices among corporations. The mediating effect of environmental innovation technologies suggests that digital platforms not only facilitate direct environmental actions but also enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of such initiatives through technological advances. The variability in response by different enterprises points to the importance of customizable strategies in policy formulation. By offering empirical evidence of digital platforms' potential to advance CSR and public health through environmental initiatives, this paper contributes to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable development goals. It provides practical insights for enterprises and policy implications for governments striving to craft more effective environmental policies and strategies.

Corporate social responsibility activities, consumers’ trust and gender: an analysis of Islamic banks in Somalia

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the link between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the amount of trust customers have in Somali Islamic banks. Furthermore, the role of gender in CSR activities and Islamic bank clientele is evaluated. Design/methodology/approach Throughout February and March 2022, 410 clients of Islamic banks in Somalia were surveyed using a questionnaire. The partial least squares approach and the structural equation model are applied to examine the data. Findings Findings indicate that all variables of CSR activities, such as social product, social legal, social needs, social environment and social employees’ responsibility, are influential and significant predictors of trust in Islamic banks in Somalia. Gender inequalities moderate the relationship between social product, social needs, social environment, social employee and trust. Conversely, only social legal responsibility was unaffected by gender differences in Somalia regarding people’s trust in Islamic banks. Practical implications A sample from a developing country such as Somalia is useful for shedding light on the outcomes of consumers’ perceptions of and trust in businesses’ CSR in the developing world. Furthermore, this study contributes to knowledge regarding CSR and how it can help the Islamic banking industry. Its findings will be useful to policymakers and regulatory bodies in the banking industry in their efforts to improve CSR. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first empirical investigation of its kind about the understudied relationship among customer trust, CSR efforts and gender in Somalia context. Furthermore, it investigates how gender specifically moderates CSR in the Islamic banking sector in a developing country.

Examining the Role of HRM Practices in Fostering Employee Engagement Towards CSR Initiative.

This paper investigates the pivotal role of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices in fostering employee engagement towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives within organizations. CSR has become a cornerstone of modern business strategy, acknowledging its significance in promoting sustainable practices and societal well-being. Employee engagement serves as a crucial link between CSR initiatives and organizational success, influencing attitudes, behaviors, and commitment levels among employees. Drawing upon existing literature and empirical evidence, this research provides insights into how HRM practices can effectively nurture and sustain employee engagement towards CSR, thereby contributing to enhanced organizational performance and social impact. [1] Theoretical frameworks such as Social Exchange Theory and Psychological Contract Theory are utilized to understand the mechanisms through which HRM practices shape employee attitudes and behaviors towards CSR. Social Exchange Theory elucidates how HRM practices serve as indicators of organizational support and commitment, fostering reciprocity and engagement among employees towards CSR goals. Psychological Contract Theory highlights the role of HRM practices in shaping the implicit expectations and obligations between employees and organizations, influencing perceptions of trust, fairness, and mutual respect, which in turn drive engagement towards CSR. [2] The paper explores key HRM practices that play a vital role in fostering employee engagement towards CSR initiatives, including recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, and rewards and incentives. It discusses how organizations can integrate CSR considerations into these practices to create an enabling environment that motivates and empowers employees to actively participate in CSR efforts. Furthermore, implications for HRM practice are outlined, emphasizing the need for strategic alignment between HRM and CSR objectives, leveraging technology and communication channels to enhance employee engagement, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. DOI: https://doi.org/10.52783/tjjpt.v45.i02.6106

Double-edged sword of corporate social responsibility (CSR) halo: the role of CSR efforts and crisis type and severity

ABSTRACT In recent years, the restaurant industry has been struggling with a variety of brand crises, including both product and moral harm crises. To mitigate the negative impact of such crises on their brands, companies are actively engaging in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. While a number of previous studies have investigated the influence of CSR on consumers’ responses to a brand in a routine setting, few have incorporated crisis-related situational variables into their examination of the role of CSR in a brand crisis situation. In order to test the extent to which the CSR halo plays a role in consumers’ evaluation in a brand crisis event, this study used a scenario-based 2 CSR efforts (low/high) x 2 crisis type (product harm/moral harm crisis) x 2 crisis severity (low/high) experimental design. The findings suggest that a higher level of brand engagement in CSR can offset the negative consequences of brand crisis in the case of product harm and less severe brand crisis, compared to moral harm and severe brand crisis, respectively. Our results provide valuable insights for companies wishing to respond successfully to a brand crisis event based on predicted consumers’ responses and on their CSR reputation.

Internal and external communication in oil & gas for enhancing CSR implementation: A review

Effective communication is essential for the successful implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the oil and gas sector. This review examines the role of internal and external communication in enhancing CSR implementation in the industry. Internal communication focuses on engaging employees and stakeholders within the organization, while external communication involves interactions with external stakeholders, including communities, governments, and NGOs. The review finds that internal communication plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of CSR within oil and gas companies. By effectively communicating CSR goals, initiatives, and progress to employees, companies can increase employee engagement and commitment to CSR objectives. Internal communication also helps ensure that CSR values are integrated into organizational practices and decision-making processes. External communication is equally important for enhancing CSR implementation in the oil and gas sector. By engaging with external stakeholders, companies can build trust, enhance their reputation, and gain valuable insights into community needs and expectations. Effective external communication also helps companies demonstrate transparency and accountability in their CSR efforts, which is critical for maintaining a social license to operate. Overall, the review highlights the importance of integrating internal and external communication strategies into CSR implementation in the oil and gas sector. By fostering a culture of CSR internally and engaging with external stakeholders effectively, companies can enhance the impact of their CSR initiatives and contribute to sustainable development in the communities where they operate.

Corporate governance and CSR for sustainability in Oil and Gas: Trends, challenges, and best practices: A review

Corporate governance and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are integral components of sustainability in the oil and gas industry, shaping the sector's environmental and social impact. This review explores current trends, challenges, and best practices in corporate governance and CSR for sustainability within the oil and gas sector. The review examines how corporate governance frameworks influence CSR strategies, highlighting the importance of board oversight and stakeholder engagement in driving sustainable practices. It also delves into the evolving role of oil and gas companies in addressing environmental concerns, such as climate change and resource depletion, through CSR initiatives and transparent reporting. Challenges faced by the industry, such as regulatory complexity, stakeholder expectations, and balancing short-term profitability with long-term sustainability, are analyzed. The review underscores the need for robust governance structures and effective CSR programs to navigate these challenges and maintain social license to operate. Best practices in corporate governance and CSR are explored, emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainability into core business strategies. Case studies illustrate successful approaches to CSR implementation, showcasing how companies can create shared value for stakeholders while driving positive environmental and social outcomes. In conclusion, the review calls for a proactive and holistic approach to corporate governance and CSR in the oil and gas industry. It advocates for increased transparency, stakeholder engagement, and alignment of CSR efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to enhance sustainability and mitigate risks in the sector.

Communication strategies for effective CSR and stakeholder engagement in the oil & gas industry: A conceptual analysis

This conceptual analysis explores communication strategies for effective Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and stakeholder engagement in the oil and gas industry. The oil and gas sector faces increasing scrutiny from stakeholders, including communities, governments, NGOs, and investors, regarding its social and environmental impact. Effective communication is crucial for companies to build trust, manage expectations, and demonstrate their commitment to CSR. The analysis discusses key communication strategies that companies can employ to enhance CSR and stakeholder engagement. These strategies include transparency, dialogue, collaboration, and storytelling. Transparency involves providing clear and accurate information about the company's CSR initiatives, performance, and impact. Dialogue involves engaging with stakeholders to understand their concerns, gather feedback, and address issues. Collaboration involves partnering with stakeholders to co-create solutions and maximize the impact of CSR initiatives. Storytelling involves sharing compelling narratives about the company's CSR efforts to inspire stakeholders and build a positive reputation. The analysis also highlights the importance of tailoring communication strategies to the specific context of the oil and gas industry. This includes addressing the unique challenges and sensitivities associated with oil and gas operations, such as environmental risks, community impacts, and regulatory complexities. Overall, the analysis emphasizes the importance of communication in driving effective CSR and stakeholder engagement in the oil and gas industry. Companies that adopt transparent, dialogue-driven, collaborative, and storytelling-based communication strategies are more likely to build trust, enhance their reputation, and create positive social and environmental impact.

Corporate Social Responsibility's Impact on Purchase Intention: The Role of Involvement

As education levels rise, consumers become more aware of their consumption choices, and the flow of information becomes increasingly transparent, the significance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) has grown in public and corporate spheres. This heightened attention reflects a growing consensus on the pivotal role CSR plays in shaping consumer behaviors, particularly their purchase intentions. In this evolving landscape, understanding the impact of CSR on consumer purchase decisions has become critically important for businesses aiming to align their values with consumer expectations and foster loyalty. This study leverages expectation theory and rationality theory to construct a comprehensive model that examines the influence of CSR on consumer purchase intentions. By delving into how consumers perceive CSR activities and the extent to which these perceptions influence their willingness to buy products from socially responsible companies, the research aims to provide valuable insights for businesses looking to enhance their CSR strategies. The research methodology included the distribution of questionnaires to a broad audience, resulting in 426 valid responses. Through a rigorous analytical process involving exploratory factor analysis for reliability, alongside correlation and regression analyses, the study sought to validate the hypothesis that CSR and consumer involvement have a positive impact on purchase intentions. Notably, the study also explored the moderating effect of consumer involvement in the relationship between CSR perceptions and purchase intentions. The findings reveal a significant positive correlation between CSR initiatives and consumer purchase intentions, underscoring the importance of companies engaging in socially responsible practices. Moreover, the degree of consumer involvement was found to enhance the positive impact of CSR on purchase intentions, suggesting that more engaged consumers are likely to place greater value on CSR efforts when making purchasing decisions.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its Influence on Organizational Reputation

Purpose: The main objective of the study was to examine Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its influence on organizational reputation.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
 Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its influence on organizational reputation. Preliminary empirical review revealed a strong positive correlation between CSR activities and organizational reputation across industries and geographical contexts. Companies prioritizing CSR initiatives like environmental sustainability and ethical practices are perceived more favorably by stakeholders, underscoring CSR's role in enhancing reputation and trust. Transparent communication of CSR efforts through various channels strengthens this reputation further. Additionally, the study identifies mediating and moderating factors such as CEO characteristics and industry norms, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership and tailored strategies. Ultimately, integrating CSR into strategic decision-making, transparent communication, and adaptation to stakeholder expectations are crucial for building a positive reputation that fosters long-term success.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Stakeholder theory, Institutional theory and the Resource Based View theory may be used to anchor future studies on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The study provided comprehensive recommendations based on its findings. Firstly, it suggests prioritizing CSR initiatives aligned with core values and business objectives to enhance reputation and build stakeholder trust. Secondly, transparent communication strategies should be adopted to convey CSR efforts effectively, fostering credibility and engagement. Furthermore, integrating CSR into overall business strategy and operations ensures its alignment with organizational culture and decision-making processes, maximizing its impact. Investing in stakeholder engagement enhances the effectiveness of CSR initiatives by involving diverse stakeholders in program design and evaluation. Additionally, monitoring and evaluating CSR impact through both quantitative and qualitative metrics is essential for accountability and continuous improvement. Lastly, leadership commitment and organizational culture are emphasized as crucial drivers of CSR, with senior executives playing a pivotal role in fostering an ethical and socially responsible environment that enhances organizational reputation and sustainability.

Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives on Women’s Empowerment in India: A Comprehensive Analysis

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have gained prominence globally as a means to address social issues, including gender equality and women’s empowerment. In India, where gender disparities persist across various socio-economic indicators, CSR initiatives hold significant potential to contribute to the empowerment of women. This research article presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact of CSR initiatives on women’s empowerment in India. Through a systematic review of existing literature, case studies, and empirical data, this study evaluates the effectiveness of CSR programs in promoting gender equality, enhancing economic opportunities, and advancing social inclusion for women. The article also explores the challenges and opportunities encountered in the implementation of CSR initiatives aimed at women’s empowerment, considering diverse sectors and geographical contexts within India. Furthermore, the article discusses the role of government policies, institutional frameworks, and stakeholder collaborations in facilitating meaningful CSR interventions for women’s empowerment. By critically assessing the outcomes and limitations of CSR efforts, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of the potential of corporate engagement in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in India.

Beyond taste: examining sustainable value, perceived CSR and consumer behaviour in the restaurant industry

PurposeAs perceived corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become one of the long-term sustainable development strategies for many companies, this paper investigates the interrelationships between sustainable values (SVs), perceived CSR and customer behaviour in the restaurant industry.Design/methodology/approachTo gather data needed to meet the study aims, we conducted an online survey of restaurant patrons in China, and used partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse the proposed models and test the hypotheses.FindingsThe obtained findings confirm that the three studied SV dimensions (equality, respect for nature and shared responsibility) have positive effects on perceived CSR, which in turn significantly affects word of mouth (WOM). Moreover, perceived CSR mediates the relationship between the three SVs and WOM but has no impact on the relationship between SVs and revisit intention.Practical implicationsThe results of this study have practical implications for managers in the restaurant industry. Restaurant managers can prioritize their CSR efforts based on the relative importance of SV dimensions, which is useful in generating positive WOM.Originality/valueEven though the importance of CSR is widely recognised, it is insufficiently studied from the perspective of restaurant customers. This research not only addresses this gap, but also expands the current understanding of SVs and their impact on CSR.

The Impacts of Technology Innovation on Customer Satisfaction, Employee and Leadership Commitment in CSR Practice

Abstract: In today’s digital economy, the Airline industries face ever-increasing innovation and social demands. This paper aims to explore the mediating impacts of technology innovation on customer satisfaction, employee commitment, and leadership commitment for the reputations of corporate social responsibility (CSR) practice evidence from Ethiopian Airlines. This study used mixed research design methods through primary data sources using structural equations and path modeling analysis. The results show that technology innovation is the most significant factor that mediates customer satisfaction and employee and leadership commitment with CSR practice. Employee commitment and customer satisfaction have also substantially impacted CSR, followed by technology innovation. Comparatively, leadership commitment is inversely and significantly associated with the mediator technology innovation. Although Ethiopia Airlines is trying to improve its CSR reputation, it must adopt more well-planned CSR, digitalization, and innovation capability. The existing airlines’ CSR efforts are reactive in nature, responding to customer, employee, and economic, legal, and philanthropic aspects rather than being proactive in transformative leadership commitment and environmental and ethical concerns. Therefore, the airline should prioritize digital technology innovation, transformative leadership, and moral and ecological CSR concerns. This will boost the airlines to treat CSR and technology innovation as the two sides of one coin.

Employment protection and environmental corporate social responsibility: Evidence from China

The paper examines the influence of employment protection on environmental corporate social responsibility (CSR). Our findings demonstrate that employment protection has a negative effect on environmental CSR and green innovation, particularly for financially constrained firms and those with higher agency costs, providing support for the crowding-out hypothesis. Mechanism tests reveal that employment protection reduces operational flexibility and increases the risk of default for firms. Lastly, employment protection promotes the disclosure of CSR information. These findings indicate that CSR may be influenced by agency issues, and increased employment protection leads firms to reduce unnecessary CSR efforts while focusing on cost-effective CSR information disclosure.

A comparison of analysts’ and investors’ information efficiency of corporate social responsibility activities

Purpose This paper aims to examine the extent to which sell-side analysts efficiently incorporate firms’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities into their earnings forecasts. In addition, this paper also investigate the CSR information efficiency of analysts vis-à-vis that of investors. Design/methodology/approach This paper measures CSR activities by using CSR strength and CSR concern scores from the Morgan Stanley Capital International Environmental, Social and Governance database. This paper uses analysts’ earnings forecast errors and dispersion as proxies for their information efficiency. To compare the CSR information efficiency of analysts to that of investors, this paper uses the Vt/Pt ratio, which is the equity value estimates inferred from analysts’ earnings forecasts (a proxy for analysts’ CSR information efficiency) to the stock price of the focal company (a proxy for investors’ CSR information efficiency). Findings The regression analysis indicates that analysts’ earnings forecasts are optimistically biased and more dispersed for firms with positive CSR activities. The paper also finds that analysts’ forecasts are more optimistically biased than investors in interpreting CSR activities. Practical implications The lack of standardized protocols in CSR reporting and activities has raised the risk of mispricing by analysts, threatening the stability of sustainable investments. This paper suggests that regulators and standard-setters should establish a uniform framework governing firms’ CSR activities, along with their reporting and measurement, to ensure more consistent and reliable evaluations of CSR practices. Social implications Analysts’ mispricing of CSR activities may distort sustainable investing, as it can overly focus on the positive impacts of stakeholder theory, overlooking agency theory’s warnings about managerial self-interest. Investors need to assess CSR efforts with a dual perspective, acknowledging their societal value but also examining their alignment with shareholder interests. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to assess the efficiency of analysts versus investors in processing CSR information amidst growing sustainable investment interests. Furthermore, building on Dhaliwal et al. (2012), which found that voluntary CSR disclosures correlate with more accurate analyst forecasts, this research provides fresh perspectives on the evolving nature of how analysts assimilate CSR information over time.

Internal versus External Corporate Social Responsibility: Company Age and Size Moderate CSR Efficacy

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts by established legacy brands are often seen as inauthentic. What can brands do to genuinely engage in CSR efforts? This study investigates internal CSR as a potential solution. CSR type (internal and external) and extrinsic cues (brand size and age) interact to affect congruence, authenticity, and subsequent purchase intention for companies that communicate these efforts on social media. Through a series of three experiments, we compare the effectiveness of internal and external CSR in influencing consumer perceptions. Results confirm that CSR is not a one-size-fits-all solution for brands. We find that Internal CSR is more effective for legacy (older, larger) brands, while external CSR is more effective for novel (newer, smaller) brands. This paper is among the first to conceptualize internal CSR as a potential strategy for legacy brands that often struggle for authentic ways to get involved with social issues. Results indicate that consumers want to see larger, older brands try to "fix" themselves before they attempt to fix the world.

The impact of foreign ownership on corporate social responsibility

Firms around the world are paying great attention to enhancing their corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices and international stakeholders are believed to have the potential to offer significant insight and knowledge to help firms expand their CSR efforts (Tokas & Yadav, 2023). This study is among the few to identify the impact of offshore owners on the CSR activities of publicly traded companies in Vietnam. With 309 firms included in the study during the period of 2015 and 2019, using ordinary least squares (OLS) estimation and robustness tests, the empirical result indicates that greater engagement of foreign owners improves the CSR practices of publicly listed firms in Vietnam. This finding aligns entirely with existing theories on the relationship between foreign ownership (FO) and CSR, such as superior knowledge transfer theory, capital-based linkage theory, legitimacy theory, and stakeholders’ theory. Another interesting finding of this research is a significantly positive relationship between FO and CSR of nonenvironmentally sensitive firms while no significant impact is found in environmentally sensitive firms. The implication drawn from this outcome suggests that Vietnamese companies should use the robust backing provided by international stakeholders to effectively implement CSR initiatives, with the ultimate goal of achieving sustainable development.

Cooperative Donation Programs in Supply Chains With Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Today, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is known as a critical element of supply chain (SC) operations. In this article, we analytically study an SC coordination problem with social efforts for charity. The proposed SC includes one retailer and one manufacturer in which the manufacturer gives donations to a nongovernmental organization (NGO) in two forms, namely a lump sum amount plus a per-sold-item donation amount. While CSR efforts have been considered as an abstract concept in prior studies, this article contributes to the literature by specifically exploring an SC with an NGO in the form of two types of donations as CSR activities. The problem is first modeled under a decentralized decision-making setting in which each member focuses on its own profit. The second model is developed under the centralized decision-making structure in which the whole SC profit under the centralized scenario is improved. To achieve Pareto-improving channel coordination, a cooperative donation program using a combined “wholesale price and cost-sharing” contract is proposed. Our analytically proven results demonstrate that the proposed SC coordination contract can achieve Pareto improvement. Moreover, we prove that the NGO receives more donations under the proposed contract. Therefore, the proposed contract is beneficial to both the SC members and the NGO. In the extended model, we investigate the case under the endogenous “low/high pricing regimes” and reveal that the main findings remain robust. Managerial insights and implications are discussed.

Are Firms Adopting a Going Vertical or a Going Lateral CSR Approach Equally Innovative? An Empirical Analysis on Medium-Sized Enterprises

This article explores the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and innovation, focusing on medium-sized enterprises and adopting a stakeholder-based view. Using a platform launched by the Italian government, which provides information about CSR efforts and innovation performances at the firm level, the authors distinguish, by means of a hierarchical cluster analysis, two types of CSR approaches (going lateral and going vertical) that differ in terms of breadth and depth of the stakeholder-oriented actions implemented. A bivariate probit model, estimated to explain the different types of innovations (product and/or process), shows that firms adopting a going lateral approach are more likely to innovate in both products and processes. Results provide a theoretical contribution regarding the CSR-innovation relationship, by adopting a stakeholder theory lens. Most studies delve into the relationship between specific stakeholder-oriented CSR actions and innovation, while we consider them in aggregation. Our research also increases knowledge on CSR in medium-sized companies, which are scarcely investigated.

Employees' positive perceptions of corporate social responsibility create beneficial outcomes for firms and their employees: Organizational pride as a mediator

AbstractWe studied employees' responses to the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program implemented within the Canadian headquarters of a global consumer goods company. Our study is timely since recent studies indicate that employees place more importance on CSR activities when evaluating current or prospective employers. A novel theoretical contribution of our study is that we combine social identity theory and the theory of appraisal of emotions to better understand employee responses. We developed and tested a model that indicates that employees' evaluation and perceptions of the authenticity of their company's CSR efforts can create both firm‐beneficial (loyalty, trust in management, positive word‐of‐mouth) and employee‐beneficial outcomes (job satisfaction, emotional well‐being). The impact of CSR does not result directly—it is mediated by organizational pride. We also collected qualitative data that suggested that the company's CSR initiatives can contribute to employees' sense of meaning of their work. We discuss implications for researchers and managers, as well as limitations of the study.