Making the World a Better Place…

What does social good mean to you?

The Social Good Summit is taking place at the 92nd Street Y in NYC this week.  The speakers, who range from Sir Richard Branson to Al Gore to Malala Yousafzai, are discussing the intersection of innovation, new media and technology and then translating that into action plans to make the world a better place.

What can you do?

The famous speakers and experts at the summit shared big ideas and real-time, world changing developments.   But plenty of people are contributing to this effort everyday in ways big and small.  Is it relevant to discuss these efforts in the context of a job interviews?  We think so, and here’s why.

1.    Sharing any examples of how you innovate at work is always a good idea.

2.     Have you contributed to a sustainability effort or a CSR program in your current workplace?  Interviewers want to hear about it even if it is not a principle part of your responsibilities.

3.    Do you practice environmentally responsible habits in your life and bring them to the workplace?  Encouraging a recycling program or riding your bike to work says you are a conscientious person who makes decisions that are beneficial to personal and environmental health and wellness.

4.    Volunteerism. Do you participate in any non-profits through your job or outside the workplace?  Talk about it.  Chances are you will find something in common with your interviewers. These programs might not be technology innovation in action but will show that you are a well-rounded person.

5.    Do you support any social action organizations? There are thousands of opportunities to get involved. Here at Chaloner, we make regular micro loans through Kiva. We have clients who support the Red Cross, Room to Read, Heifer International, Animal Rescue League and many, many other worthwhile programs. It’s a great way to make positive connections with interviewers.

Chaloner

Chaloner, founded in 1979 as Chaloner Associates, is a national executive search firm that focuses on recruiting mid- to senior-level communications, public relations, marketing and investor relations professionals.