Hyundai EandC trying to set CSR example
By Kim Tae-gyu
What would new recruits do in the beginning of their career in a specific firm? A vast majority of companies would put a top priority on making them learn their tasks as soon as possible.
Yet, here is a totally different company of Hyundai Engineering & Construction (E&C) _ this year’s new employees of the nation’s foremost contractor opened 2011 with charity activities.
They visited a few welfare centers for the senior citizens and the disabled early this year to make kimchi, the nation’s traditional side dishes made of cabbages, help a city tour and improve environments.
``On the first working days after their employment, a total of 367 new recruits of Hyundai E&C and its affiliates visited welfare centers to conduct various charity programs this January,’’ a Hyundai spokesman said.
``It amply demonstrates our philosophy that we always put the social corporate responsibility (CSR) on the front burner. We will continue to stick to the policy down the road.’’
Such programs are not just limited to newly employed personnel since all the members of the builder are strongly recommended to proactively participate in CSR initiatives across the board.
Starting mid-October to early November, a host of its executives and workers contributed their assets for an auction. All the proceeds gained for the 581 donated items were offered to a charity organization.
Late last month, the Seoul-based constructor organized an in-house book fair, which attracted donation of 2,233 books for various CSR schemes.
``Hyundai E&C has encouraged workers to take part in CSR programs whether they are initiated by Hyundai or any other organizations,’’ the spokesman said.
``Toward that end, we introduced a CSR mileage system in 2009, which have been a great success in jacking up our employees’ awareness for CSR and in drawing their participation.’’
The CSR mileage system refers to a unique program of Hyundai E&C, which asks its workers to accumulate at least 12 miles every year.
There are lots of ways to reach the aim. When company officials partake in any charity programs for two hours, they are given a mile. Accordingly, they have to invest at least 24 hours to reach the 12 mile goal.
Otherwise, they can donate cashes or transfuse blood to crank up the mileage.
``In the past, we have an incentive format of honoring those with best mileages. For example, the winner in 2010 topped 1,000 miles as he helped the needy in charity facilities almost every week,’’ the spokesman said.
``Such a system does not exist any longer. Nevertheless, almost all workers abide by the 12 mile target on their own.’’