In Utah, its rich history, its family-centered values and being business-oriented with traditional business principles have been hallmarks of the state. But as the values of social responsibility, inclusivity and environmental awareness expand, Utah businesses find themselves with new expectations.
Whether it’s from a small family-owned store or large corporation, companies throughout the state are progressing values, sometimes called ‘woke’ culture, into company values, while still staying true to their core principles. That being said, Buy Woke Free is a resource that consumers can use to support businesses that prefer to stick to tradition, rather than take part in progressive trends. It provides businesses that are ‘woke free’ to a certain extent, all of which strive to provide a product or service based on traditional values.
Woke Culture in Business: How It Rose
The word woke now means being aware of issues in society and including sustainability and social justice. For many businesses around the country, “go woke” is synonymous with adopting policies and practices consonant with those values — diversifying the workforce, reducing carbon footprints, and supporting local communities. These practices are often heralded by some large corporations as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives which also tend to have the effect of giving the large corporations points with a modern, socially conscious customer base.
In Utah, businesses are treading a fine line between celebrating these values and respecting the more traditional preferences of their community. Many local companies are figuring out what progressive initiatives they can include, partly choosing which initiatives align with their audience and partly retaining the conservative ethos of Utah.
Diversity and Inclusivity in the Utah Workplace
In the U.S., inclusivity and diversity have taken the forefront of workplace culture, and businesses are being asked to create a workplace where they welcome employees from different backgrounds and perspectives. Diversity is something Utah businesses — particularly in growing fields like technology and healthcare — know they can tap into because it brings more ideas and more ways to solve problems and innovate.
The companies in Utah’s Silicon Slopes tech hub are leading by example. But many tech startups are building programs to create a more inclusive environment — it’s part of what gets the best talent. However, there are some firms who choose to be slower and lean towards practices that promote inclusive culture without upending their organizational structure. This style is one that companies can adopt and change with norms while respecting the unique cultural heritage of Utah.
Environmental Responsibility and Sustainability Programs
Another one of the elements of woke culture is environmental responsibility. More and more consumers are picking companies that put sustainability and demonstrate a desire to cut down on environmental damage. Sourcing renewable energy, reducing plastic waste and using environmentally sustainable materials are just some of the eco friendly practices some Utah businesses are embracing, particularly those in outdoor recreation and tourism.
For instance, Utah’s abundant natural landscapes are a good match for several Utah based outdoor gear companies, some of which are also finding that environmentally responsible practices work. Through the implementation of green initiatives, these companies draw in eco conscious consumers, as well as assist Utah in their preservation efforts, all without conflicting with Utah’s traditional values. Although, there are several companies that take a measured approach to incorporating sustainability into business, using it where it makes sense, not fully embracing progressive, environment mindset.
Social Issues and Corporate Activism: Key to Navigate
Responding to pressing social issues is one of the trickiest areas for Utah businesses. Brands have been increasingly all in on corporate activism, saying everything from words about racial equality, gender rights and political movements that they aren’t best positioned to comment on. Utah generally leans conservative, and that makes social issues hard for companies in the state to talk about. And many business leaders know that taking public stands could alienate parts of their customer base and anger groups of people.
Rather than explicitly supporting or opposing social movements, many of Utah’s companies work on actions that produce positive local community outcomes. For instance, some may support education programmes, provide scholarships or sponsor community events that bring people together without getting involved in divisive national debates. This strategy enables businesses to help with societal improvement, without taking a polarising stance that might conflict with their brand values.
Adapting Without Alienating: A Careful Balance
Utah businesses understand that to stay relevant in today’s marketplace you have to successfully balance tradition with progress. Sometimes they will pick and choose what of the woke culture meshes with their world view without necessarily being fully on board.
By striking this balance, the company retains loyal customers who enjoy traditional elements, while luring in new audiences that are interested in seeing some level of social responsibility. Whether you are anti-woke or not, woke culture seems to firmly have its place in society for the time being.
Also Read: Nancy Harris: A Tech Veteran Transforming Traditional Business Management To Cloud-Based Services
