Employees Want Green Jobs

Seems like the old adage do well and do good is driving job seekers to seek out companies with an eye on the environment and social responsibility.

The trend reflects the increasing importance that the environment plays in the growth of “green” job sectors and corporate viability in general.

More than just a boost for the planet, the search for green jobs brings benefits to the workplace including less turnover and more loyal employees. Social Funds recently published Working for the Earth: Green Companies and Green Jobs Attract Employees looking at a survey conducted by MonsterTRAK.

SocialFunds.com — College graduates are looking for more than just a first job or an internship. They are looking to work for businesses that help the environment…Results from the survey show that a surprising percentage of young workers want employment with a green company: 80% of those surveyed said they are interested in a job that has a positive impact on the environment and a whopping 92% would chose working for an environmentally friendly company.

The numbers relay how environmental issues have become ingrained into the upcoming crop of workers. But the article went on to include those who are already employed. Here’s what they found:

Other research shows employees working at companies with clear corporate responsibility (CSR) programs, including environmental and social programs, are most satisfied. Employees at these companies also stay at their jobs longer and are more content with senior management then their peers at companies with lackluster CSR programs according to a recent survey by Kenexa Research Institute (KRI).

Both new and established workers are more engaged in companies that have social and environmental initiatives. Makes sense since its much easier to align with a corporation if your personal values are compatible. Overall this news is exciting because it means new, creative job seekers are putting their talents towards the environment and that those further on in their career also want to work for change.

The full Social Funds post is very good, you can read it here. And if you’re interested in really green jobs you might want to try:

• Green Dream Jobs (US, some international)
• Environementjob.co.uk (UK, some international)
• SustainAbility resources (UK, some international)