Never heard of the word “businessworthy”?
You’re not the only one.
I first came across the term in 2014, when attending the Oslo Business for Peace Award. Each year, carefully selected CEOs receive recognition for their businesses that deliver beyond economic growth and shareholder value. Many companies have incentives like this, but how many make it one of their cornerstone values?
When thinking of someone being good at business, I think of confident, savvy individuals making lots of deals and money. Fearless, risk -takers that with a bit of good luck and hard work are able to lay cash on the table for their various stakeholders. The society looks up to these people for their ability to bring economic growth. Almost as if they are the ultimate definition of success. Yet, shouldn’t we rather admire those who find it equally important to give back to society?
Turns out that that the Business for Peace Foundation came up with the term, defining it as applying one’s “business energy ethically and responsibly with the purpose of creating social as well as economic value”. The individuals receiving the award, must have shown how to achieve long term success by focusing on social benefit. Moreover, they must have earned appreciation for their efforts, and to be outspoken advocates for ethical and responsible business.
This really is an outstanding achievement to receive, but again: Have you heard of the award? Have you read about it? Probably not. In my opinion, it would be a good idea to add the word in our dictionaries.
Learn more about the award winners of 2019 here
Learn more about being businessworthy here
