In today’s business environment, integrating sustainability into decision-making isn’t just a trend t’s a necessity. But who actually leads on this within a company?
Our latest research shows that only one in four employers has a board-level director dedicated solely to sustainability. For the remaining majority, the responsibility is spread across departments like HR, finance, operations, or estates.
No matter your role, if you want to help steer your organisation towards a more sustainable future, it’s time to make sustainability a core part of your business strategy. Here are four practical ways to do just that:
1. Strengthen Your Soft Skills to Influence Sustainable Decisions
It takes more than technical know-how to drive sustainability forward. You’ll need strong soft skills to influence leadership and engage internal stakeholders.
Focus on developing:
- Negotiation and persuasion
- Stakeholder management
- Emotional intelligence
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
These competencies are some of the most in-demand in the sustainability sector today. Free online resources are widely available to help you build these skills and boost your impact in your current role.
2. Build a Strong Business Case for Sustainable Strategy Sustainability is increasingly seen as a smart investment. Roles in this area have seen salary growth of 6.3% in the past year well above the national average of 3.5%.
If your organisation is already taking steps toward net zero, now is the time to align your strategy with that mission. For those in less active environments, a compelling business case can drive change.
Sustainable practices can:
- Enhance brand reputation
- Reduce operational costs
- Mitigate risk
- Attract top talent
- Future-proof the business
It’s also essential to avoid the pitfalls of greenwashing or greenhushing, both of which can damage credibility and customer trust.
3. Tailor Your Communication to Different Business Stakeholders
What drives one leader may not influence another. Understanding your audience is key to pushing sustainability forward.
Think of each stakeholder’s “currency”:
- CFO: ROI and cost efficiency
- COO: Operational performance and employee wellbeing
- CEO: Long-term growth and brand legacy
Adapt your messaging accordingly. Use data and metrics that matter most to each individual to show how sustainability supports their objectives.
4. Empower Employees to Champion Your Sustainability Goals
Leaders set the tone, but employees carry the culture. According to our survey, 74% of professionals consider a company’s sustainability commitment when job hunting.
This is an opportunity. When employees understand and believe in your sustainability vision, they become your greatest allies.
Encourage open communication, involve them in planning, and share progress transparently. The more invested your team is, the more effective your initiatives will be.
Take the Next Step with Resource Provider Ltd
Whether you’re a sustainability professional looking to make your next career move, or a business seeking the right people to lead your green transformation, we’re here to help.
Explore our current job openings or speak with our consultants to discover how we can support your sustainability journey.