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Entrepreneurs' views on corporate social responsibility communication in SMEs - insights from Germany

Author

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  • Jelena Simon
  • Kerstin Ettl

Abstract

Although the entrepreneur plays a crucial role in SME development, discussions about corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the reasons for a lack of CSR communication by companies are - paradoxically - usually held without listening to the entrepreneurs themselves. We address this gap and two questions from an entrepreneur's point of view: How, for what reasons and to whom do SMEs currently communicate their CSR activities? What do SMEs themselves regard as requirements for effective and manageable CSR communication? We refer to case studies developed through in-depth interviews with SME owners in Germany and aim to illustrate the motives and challenges that entrepreneurs face when they talk (or do not talk) about and publicise (or do not publicise) fulfilled social responsibility actions. Our results emphasise the great importance of the entrepreneurs' attitude towards and knowledge about corporate social responsibility in the method and intensity of CSR communication in SMEs.

Suggested Citation

  • Jelena Simon & Kerstin Ettl, 2019. "Entrepreneurs' views on corporate social responsibility communication in SMEs - insights from Germany," International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 23(4), pages 425-445.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijeima:v:23:y:2019:i:4:p:425-445
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