More than half of jobseekers believe that having an ethically and socially responsible employer is important, according to a survey by Reed Employment.

The study revealed that 12% of jobseekers admitted that a defined corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy was the most important factor in selecting a new employer.

It found that 82% of jobseekers report that CSR will become an even more important issue over the next five years.

The social issues closest to candidates' hearts were openness to equal opportunities (44%), diversity of workforce (26%), environmental policies (16%) and charity work (6% ).

Janine Parry, head of marketing, says: "We are fast becoming a socially aware society and it's no surprise that jobseekers are demanding a more ethical stance from their employers. The decision to implement a CSR policy makes good business sense; it gives companies a competitive edge, saves money and, as our research shows, helps to attract top candidates."   

A similar survey carried out among employers revealed that while 83% believe it is important to have socially and ethically responsible partners, only 35% currently have their own CSR policies.

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