Many businesses are more concerned with their bottom line than with the difference they can make in their communities and even the world, but today’s consumers are interested in more than just the products that companies sell. In fact, 78% of Americans believe that it is no longer enough for a company just to make money; they must make a positive impact on society as well.
While there has been a rise in brands speaking out about causes they care about, there is still a lot to be desired for big brands and businesses using their voices and money for good. As such, it is always wonderful to learn of socially conscious, mission-driven companies using their products and services to make a difference.
One such company is LinkGraph, a full-service digital marketing agency that provides SEO services and growth marketing that brings online visibility to digital brands that share their values. We were honored to be able to sit down with Manick Bhan, Founder and CTO of LinkGraph, to talk about how his company is working to support systemic change for animals, communities, and the planet.
Socially Conscious Policies & Giving Back
With environmental concerns rising daily, lessening the environmental impact of individuals and businesses grows more critical. Bhan’s initiatives and company policies are rooted in compassion for our world and its inhabitants. From providing vegan meals to a paperless policy and staff volunteer days, LinkGraph is a company that puts its money where its morals are.
Recognizing the unique ability companies have to make a more significant difference and not wanting any of LinkGraph’s money to support the killing of animals, Bhan has made veganism a part of the company’s culture from the beginning. Company-catered events are always entirely vegan, new clients receive a gift box featuring vegan snacks, and employees can only expense plant-based foods when traveling for work.
Of course, being vegan is not a requirement to work at LinkGraph. Still, Bhan says that employees have responded positively to the company’s vegan policy and are proud to be a part of a mission-driven company. The policy has also allowed employees to try vegan food, some for the first time. Many employees have been surprised at just how much they enjoy it, and some have even gained an interest in plant-based living.
Giving back is also a priority at LinkGraph. Through the LinkGraph Cares program, a percentage of LinkGraph’s monthly revenue is donated to organizations helping change the world for the better. Farm Sanctuary, Equal Justice Initiative, The Humane Society of the United States, Animal Equality, and Campaign Zero are just a few of the more than 20 organizations that have benefited from over $150,000 donated through LinkGraph Cares.
Is Your Company Making a Difference?
Bhan is challenging other businesses to follow his lead. The difference individuals can make in ending animal cruelty, helping the environment, and enacting positive social change is not to be overlooked. Still, the impact that businesses can have on these issues is enormous.
While starting a business from zero is challenging, Bhan knows from personal experience the importance of being ethical in how you do business. He told us, “…if you try to do things in the ethical way or the right way, you’ll get better outcomes in the long term, not always in the short term, but in the long term, you’ll end up in a better place”.
For employees who want their company to make more ethical choices, Bhan recommends starting small. Start with those with who you work closely and get them on board with your socially conscious initiatives. You may, unfortunately, find that your company isn’t geared up for activism. Bhan has advice for that as well. He says, “…if you feel like the company that you’re in is not contributing to making the bigger picture better in the way that you are passionate about, then you should think about whether that’s really where you want to plant your flag and the business you want to support. I think people should think about that a lot because there’s a lot of other businesses out there that do care.”
A Step Above the Rest
LinkGraph isn’t the only company in its space. Nevertheless, it is growing. Bhan told us that as people see how LinkGraph does things, they want to support the company. From employee retention and hiring new employees to other organizations that want to come and help just as LinkGraph helps them, the company’s commitment to being a socially conscious brand sets them apart from the rest. With LinkGraph, Bhan proves that you can have a successful business while standing up for what matters.
