Communicating Corporate Social Responsibility and Advocacy on Social Media as a Driver for Societal Change
摘要
In an era where corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate social advocacy (CSA) are integral to brand identity, social media serves as a crucial tool for engaging consumers, fostering transparency, and shaping public perception. This chapter explores how businesses can use social media to communicate CSR and CSA while reflecting on the challenges of this medium. Drawing on Wilkie and Moore’s (1999) Aggregate Marketing System, we discuss how social forces shape marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of trust and ethical engagement in the digital age. With consumers demanding brands to take meaningful stances on social and environmental issues, firms must navigate complex stakeholder expectations while maintaining authenticity. Effective CSR messaging relies on emotional appeals, interactive engagement, and alignment with a brand’s mission. However, the prevalence of misleading corporate “washing” claims has intensified scrutiny, leading to consumer distrust, skepticism, and potential reputational crises. Studies reveal that “washing” practices, such as greenwashing or rainbow-washing, undermine genuine CSR efforts, calling for greater accountability and transparency. Ultimately, social media enables both advocacy and real-time brand scrutiny, forcing companies to move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate a tangible commitment to social good. This chapter underscores the need for radical intent in CSR and CSA efforts to drive meaningful societal change.