M. Isabel Sánchez-Hernández

Structural analysis of the strategic orientation to environmental protection in SMEs

This paper examines the extent to which the information on Social Responsibility (SR) that managers of firms in the Autonomous Community of Extremadura in Spain have determined their positive predisposition towards the practical exercise of environmentally responsible actions. With the theoretical background of Market Orientation (MO), a conceptual model of causal relationships is defined and is contrasted empirically with a structural equations model for a sample of 758 SMEs in Extremadura. The results verify that the greater the concern for seeking and receiving information about SR, the greater the tendency towards environmentally responsible management, and the greater the importance given to the disclosure of the SR the firm itself practises. Consequently, the provision of information, awareness, and training related to SR promoted by managers or fostered by business organizations and public administrations will have a positive effect on the orientation towards environmental protection.

Theoretical and methodological framework for the qualitative validation of an explanatory model of social responsibility in cooperatives societies

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address a theoretical and methodological framework to validate a model for explaining social responsibility in cooperative societies. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative methodology based on the assessment and agreement of an expert panel has been used. More exactly, a Delphi technique will help achieve agreement about the set of indicators previously defined and to get a single and agreed definition. Findings – The results consist of a consensus scale for each variable of the proposed model. This unanimity in the opinions about the final result will be the basis for further quantitative treatment of the proposed conceptual model. Research limitations/implications – Limitations derive from the initial state of the study and the need to practical analysis. Practical and social implications – Cooperative societies could have a way to analyze their position related to social responsibility. In general, contributions to social responsibility have improved, in ...

Corporate Social Responsibility as a Strategic Opportunity for Small Firms during Economic Crises

Abstract The aim of this study is to analyze if there is a direct causal relationship between small firms’ orientation toward corporate social responsibility and their competitive success, mediated by innovation and performance. A structural equation model has been applied to a sample of 758 small Spanish firms. The results indicate that, in times of economic crisis, socially responsible strategies are a determining factor in firms’ competitiveness. Pragmatic advice for practitioners derives from research results, considering that social responsibility represents an opportunity for small firms in the complex and turbulent time. The findings encourage small firms to manage operations responsibly as a guarantee of market success.

The One for One Movement: The New Social Business Model

One for one movement companies have the mission to donate the same units that they sell to people in need. Nowadays this simple business model is been adopted by dozens of companies around the world to improve the quality of life of society. This chapter analyzes the best practices and reflects about the future of the movement. The commitment of these companies to improve quality of life of people in need around the world is a fact. The movement could be considered a new business model working to create purchasing with meaning that support worthy causes such as helping save and restore sight. Thanks to this movement thousands of basic articles for assuring human dignity are being donated. Things to improve life conditions, such shoes or glasses, are starting to be provided by companies committed to the movement because their clients are willing to contribute for a fairer world. Companies such as TOMS, Better World Books or Twins for Peace among others are analyzed in this chapter as good examples of responsible companies following the social marketing trend.

Social responsibility and competitive success of firms in the Lisbon metropolitan region

Social responsibility is considered a crucial issue to enhance a long-term competiveness in firms because it has been demonstrated the causal relationship with several strategic business variables. This paper develops a conceptual model and applies Structural Equations Modeling technique to a sample of 91 firms from the Lisbon metropolitan region in order to understand the link between Social Responsibility and competitive success. The model provides a simple guidance for upgrading competitive success in firms operating in Portugal. We consider this work as a starting point to develop a more accurate model for Portuguese economic reality in the near future.

Students’ perceptions among foreign languages in the EHEA

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to determine the students’ opinion on their proficiency in one or more foreign languages, and the importance they attribute to their foreign language competence because the adaptation to the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) implies the promotion of the mobility of teachers and students. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative and quantitative approach conducted at the University of Extremadura in Spain. The method used was to triangulate the data resulting from three quite different procedures: promoting the participating students’ awareness of the issue through a seminar on the importance of mastering other languages and their relevance for graduate employability; inquiring into the students’ impressions when receiving an English class with a focus group; and a questionnaire on their opinions about the importance of proficiency in foreign languages. Findings – The findings highlight how teaching in English in European universities could bring real opportuni...

Case 15: Improving Employees’ Quality of Life

The purpose of this case is to highlight the growing currency of employer branding in organisations and their relationship on improving employee’s quality of life. The two most famous employers of choice rankings in Spain are described: the XI ranking edition of Actualidad Economica and the Best-Place-to-Work ranking by the Great Place to Work Institute. As far as to be a renowned employer could be a source of competitive advantage, the case shows how the employees’ quality of life is indeed improved in order to follow the road to a strong, appealing employer brand.