The growing democratization of information via technology has given the public unprecedented influence over organizations' reputations around the world. This trend is transforming the relationship between corporations and the public—organizations are increasingly expected to engage and be transparent with the public about their societal impact, and consider the public’s point of view at the most strategic level of decision making.
An organization that is a responsible steward of natural resources, respects its employees, employs sound management practices and is efficient in its operations—all while engaging in a dialogue with its public audiences—will have a far greater likelihood of generating sustained value versus an entity that sacrifices long-term success for short-term gain.
Hill+Knowlton Strategies believes the most effective approach to ensuring sustainable, responsible—and profitable—organizations is through a broader focus on governance – the standards and practices by which organizations operate and seek to maximize their long-term reputational and financial value while remaining accountable to the public.