Question

A downturn in the economy has resulted in reduced funding. Recently other nonprofits have entered the field and are vying for the same financial resources, resulting in employees working longer hours in a fierce competition to earn grants.

Key areas in the most recent employee engagement survey dropped significantly, citing the long hours and pay inequities. In contrast, however, employees were quite pleased with the benefits that are offered, the positive work environment, and recognition for their corporate social responsibility (CSR) work.
How can the director leverage employees' commitment to their work and the recognition of that work by outside agencies?

A. Do not take external action, as the industry is small and any interested stakeholders will already be aware of awards.
B. Include this information in the organization's newsletter.
C. Encourage employees to use the organization's awards as part of the employee referral program.
D. Include this information in all employee branding and employee value proposition information and activities.

Answer 1

The director can leverage employee CSR work and positive work environment recognition through employee branding, to attract and retain employees, and to stand out in the competitive grant market.

Step-by-step explanation:

Given the situation of reduced funding and increased competition, coupled with employee dissatisfaction due to long hours and pay inequities, yet a positive perspective on benefits, work environment, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) recognition, the director can leverage the commitment of the employees. The most suitable way to do this would be to include recognition of employees' CSR work and positive work environment in all employee branding and employee value proposition information and activities (option D). This strategy not only highlights the organization's strengths internally but also extends the recognition externally, which could attract potential employees and external stakeholders who value CSR. It serves as a means of employee motivation and nurturing, which is especially important for retaining millennials and Generation X employees. Additionally, this positive branding could help in distinguishing the organization in the competitive grant market.