All about the B: Cherish become B Corp Certified
We’re a B Corp!!!! We’re absolutely thrilled to announce that we have achieved B Corp certification, achieving an impressive Impact Score of 97.0, significantly higher than the pass rate of 80, so we have arrived in the B Corp community in style.
Even better was the news that we scored particularly highly for our people-based initiatives. After merging with Gong Communications to form The Wilful Group, we focused on bringing two teams together as one Wilful family, thinking about what kind of culture we wanted to create by taking the very best bits of our founding team and using this as the basis for our future. In doing so, we used the guidance of B Corp standards to ensure that we created the very best culture and environment for our team.
We revisited all of our HR policies and procedures to make sure that they worked for our people and our business. In doing so we benchmarked wages, introduced comprehensive healthcare, and flexible working arrangements, as well as implementing initiatives such as the London Living Wage for internships, hybrid and remote working options, and robust health benefits.
We brought all of this together in an incredibly comprehensive new handbook that forms the basis of our refreshed induction programme.
And we introduced volunteering days, new committees and best of all our Quarterly WOW (we own Wilful) day where we come together as a team, reflect on the past Quarter and develop ideas for the business in the Quarter ahead. Our WOW days are often hosted offsite in nature. It’s fun.
What is B Corp Certification and Why Does It Matter?
B Corp certification is a rigorous standard for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Certified B Corporations meet high benchmarks in areas such as worker treatment, environmental impact, and community engagement. For us this certification is more than just a credential—it aligns with our mission to operate responsibly and ethically.
The Power of a People-First Approach
Despite the challenges of merging distinct company cultures and navigating a tough economic landscape, we have steadfastly prioritised our people over shareholder returns. This dedication is reflected in our decision to avoid redundancies and ensure promotions and pay rises. This commitment to our employees isn’t just the right choice—it is the only choice that aligned with our B Corp values.
Transparency and Accountability
Transparency and accountability are crucial components of the B Corp certification. Alongside our certification, The Wilful Group has released its 2023 Impact Report which details our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint and decarbonise the PR sector. We hope this openness not only builds trust with clients and stakeholders but also sets us goals to stive to including helping to set a high standard for responsible business practices.
For more information on The Wilful Group’s B Corp journey and its impact, visit The Wilful Group’s website.