We often talk about how DM runs like a nonprofit even though we are not. With every dollar we earn, we support and spotlight as many Positive Impact Organizations as possible. But we thought it was time to share a little more about what we believe in as a for-profit business.
Have you heard the term Conscious Capitalism? By definition, it is using capitalism for social good, rather than greed. The folks who started the Conscious Capitalism movement abide by this rule:
When we operate with higher purpose, stakeholder orientation, conscious leadership, and conscious culture, we elevate humanity through business.
You are probably familiar with some conscious capitalist companies, like Whole Foods! Companies like this are good for the world because they bring us healthy food options while paying farmers and workers a living wage.
In short, Conscious Capitalism revolves around the following 4 tenets (via the Conscious Capitalism website):
Higher Purpose
Elevating humanity through business begins with knowing WHY your company exists. Without this, you have no compass to find and stay focused on your True North. Businesses should exist for reasons beyond just making a profit. We see profit as a necessary means to achieving your purpose—not as an end in and of itself.
Stakeholder Orientation
Recognizing that the interdependent nature of life and the human foundations of business, a business needs to create value with and for its various stakeholders (customers, employees, vendors, investors, communities, etc.).
Conscious Leadership
Human social organizations are created and guided by leaders – people who see a path and inspire others to travel along the path. Conscious Leaders understand and embrace the Higher Purpose of business and focus on creating value for and harmonizing the interests of the business stakeholders. They recognize the integral role of culture and purposefully cultivate Conscious Culture.
Conscious Culture
This is the ethos – the values, principles, practices – underlying the social fabric of a business, which permeates the atmosphere of a business and connects the stakeholders to each other and to the purpose, people and processes that comprise the company. All companies have a culture, but not all companies intentionally develop a culture that promotes their values and purpose.
In reading those, are there any that your organization actively practices? Are there any that you can begin to adopt? If this sounds like something your organization can benefit from learning more about, click here and sign up to have partner and leadership support via Conscious Capitalism.
Those of us who are in business to serve the do-gooders of the world are aware that we are better and stronger together. Have questions? Reach out to us.
It’s never too late to reassess your organization and shift your values so that they align with the greater good. Otherwise, what’s it all for? Money can do a lot of good in the world and we at Digital Mountaineers are committed to making sure our money helps as many people as possible. We know our WHY. Do you?
