Thanks to their emphasis on sustainable business practices, social responsibility, and ethical decision-making, ESG careers are becoming increasingly popular. And more people are getting the necessary training to take advantage of the new opportunities.
That said, you might be new to this emerging industry and might not know where to start. So, it is only right that we answer these two important questions. What qualifies as an ESG job? And more importantly, is an ESG job right for you?
What Qualifies as an ESG Job?
To determine if a role qualifies as an ESG job, you must look for several factors. A job is an ESG job if:
It Focuses on Sustainability
If a job prioritizes sustainable business practices, such as recycling, reducing carbon emissions, conserving resources, using renewable energy sources, and promoting social responsibility, it might qualify as an ESG job. ESG experts work to reduce the environmental impacts of a company’s operations by leveraging various sustainability strategies and programs.
It Is Interdisciplinary
ESG jobs span several disciplines, including finance, consulting, engineering, law, and marketing. Moreover, ESG jobs might involve collaborating with experts from other fields.
It Revolves Around Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Does the role entail helping businesses act responsibly when interacting with their clients, employees, and other stakeholders? If yes, it might be an ESG job. ESG jobs entail implementing CSR strategies such as inclusion initiatives, diversity, etc.
It Requires You to Pursue an ESG-Related Certificate Program
If you are required to pursue an ESG certificate program, it is certainly an ESG job. You might be asked to take the certification program for sustainability professionals offered by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), a certificate in ESG Investing by the CFA Institute, and so on.
It Complies with Important Regulations
ESG jobs always keep up with various social, environmental, and governance rules and regulations. This way, they guarantee that the business operates per the relevant laws.
It Requires Innovative Thinking
An ESG job requires ingenuity. With this skill, a business can formulate innovative solutions and strategies, which, when implemented, ensure sustainable business.
In Summary: Are ESG Jobs Right for You?
Before applying for ESG jobs or starting out on that path, you need to ask yourself, “ is this really what I want?” Only then can you know for certain if it is right for you.
That said, an ESG job is ideal if you are passionate about positively impacting the community and the environment. Even so, it is essential to note that these ESG jobs demand that you understand complex issues such as environmental regulations, sustainable finance, corporate governance, and social responsibility.
So, in short, you need to have an unwavering interest and background in ESG key areas before getting started and becoming successful.
An ESG Background is Essential for the Future Job Market
If you are big on sustainability and social responsibility in the workplace, you might want to consider pursuing an ESG career. But before getting started, be sure you understand what it is all about and, more importantly, if you will fit well in such a role. Due diligence is always key.