Name: Michael Broughton
Position: Limerick Plant Manager
You won Best CSR Business can you give our members an insight into what it takes to become Best CSR Business?
We established our CSR committee back in 2015. Since this time, we have been very active both on site and in the local community.
All our staff get involved in CSR activities in some form. Our CSR Strategy at Optel is broken down into 3 distinct areas.
- Sustainable Development (Environment)
- Sustainable Health
- Community involvement.
Initially we focussed a lot on fundraising but 18 months ago we took a decision to utilise our skills and donate more of our time for our charity partners.
Our strategy for 2019 will be similar but will be expanding on Community Involvement which we introduced in 2018 which rewards those who are involved in their community.
Of course, without dedicated staff none of this is possible.
What is the biggest lesson you have learnt in business?
Treat people fairly, not the same, there is a big difference.
All our employees are individuals with different needs, wants, performance levels, personalities, goals and motivations. When you accept this reality, you accept each person for who they are. I learned this many years ago and it has made me a better leader.
Any advice for new business owners just getting started?
Countless people dream of becoming business owners, but so many never do so, I have absolute admiration for those who set up their own business and would be reluctant to offer them any advice as I have not.
Maybe what I would say is remind yourself of why you set it up and remember you are the brave one.
What is your proudest moment in business?
I don’t have a stand out proudest moment, but I’m very proud when I see an employee who we have invested in, develop and grow, and take on extra responsibilities.
Would you recommend entering the awards and do you have any advice for people thinking of entering next year?
Absolutely yes, a business awards application can often force you to look at your business from a different prospective and compare yourself to your competition.
Winning Awards acknowledges the hard work and achievements of our employees so winning best CSR will help boost staff morale and improve motivation. Employees are focused on what’s great about the company they work for and can feel proud to be a part of it.
For those thinking of applying next year my advice would be to maximise your contribution to your community and the application will take care of itself.
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