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Importance of a Green Workplace

Beyond.com, Inc., a network of specialty career communities, recently polled business professionals throughout its network of more than 15,000 sites to gauge how important it is for professionals to find an environmentally-friendly workplace. Of those polled, when asked about how important it is to find an environmentally-aware workplace for their next job, 44% claim that it is nice to have, but not a deciding factor, 21% state that it is not something they are actively looking for, 19% suggest that it is a deciding factor between two similar jobs, and 16% claim it is a requirement. The results of Beyond.com’s poll indicate having an environmentally-friendly workplace is becoming more than just a trend. Companies that make the decision to invest time, money and resources to “go green” are not only helping the earth, but are also attracting a number of potential employees who consider a green workplace a requirement or deciding factor for their next job. With so many companies making that transition, sites such as Carbonrally.com can provide a convenient way to kick start a corporate or personal program. “It is clear that the environment and overall quality of life is becoming a top priority for many people and companies, so it’s no surprise the trend to go green is starting to affect career choices for many job seekers," says Rich Milgram, CEO of Beyond.com, Inc. “More and more companies are creating green programs and advertising their initiatives on their corporate websites and in job descriptions to attract these eco-friendly candidates to their company. “ Helpful tips on how businesses can create an environmentally-friendly workplace and motivate employees to participate in company-sponsored “green” initiatives include:

1. Getting employees excited by creating an internal “green team” to help develop and promote environmentally-friendly initiatives throughout the company.
2. Promoting Recycling – Placing recycle bins in high-traffic areas to promote recycling of paper, plastics, bottles and cans.
3. Saving Energy – Optimizing energy settings on all company computers, and encouraging employees to turn off their computers and office lights when they leave work.
4. Carpooling – Encouraging employees to take alternative methods of transportation or organizing an internal carpool. Employers also have the option of investing in technology that enables their employees to telecommute.
5. Tracking and Promoting Company Progress –Tracking new initiatives and joining an association or online community that generates new ideas and provides ways to measure green efforts. Promoting your eco-friendly initiatives on your website, in collateral and when posting your next job.