Upskilling the Workforce for a Sustainable Future

1. Acknowledge the role of all individuals in addressing the climate crisis: Sustainability goals should not be limited to leadership or a single team — instead, organisations must build frameworks to align individual employee roles to sustainability. For instance, members of a Rewards and Recognition committee should consider the sustainability of the gifts they hand out.

It also helps for organizations to have structures in place to deliver on net zero goals. Here at Salesforce, we have an integrated philanthropic approach: the 1-1-1 model. We ensure that 1% of our equity, 1% of our product, and 1% of our time is used to positively impact the communities around us — including the environment. This model allows each employee to realise the power they possess to make a difference.

2. Empower employees with the right platforms, tools, and training: While we’re still determining how traditional roles can be redesigned to include sustainability-focused KRAs (Key Responsibility Areas), it’s vital to explore all possibilities through powerful platforms, tools, and training. For instance, organisations can leverage Salesforce Trailhead, which offers a series of modules on sustainability that allow employees to get self-trained in areas that appeal to them.

In addition, employees need to understand their individual and corporate impact on the environment. Using tools that simplify measuring carbon footprint — such as Salesforce Net Zero Cloud — can help users understand every activity and decision’s impact.In addition, employees should be empowered to find communities of like-minded allies for the environment. At Salesforce India, we have a local chapter of Earthforce — a global employee group focused on driving sustainability.

“88% of employees believe there is little investment in sustainability training.”

SALESFORCE SUSTAINABILITY TALENT GAP 2022 REPORT

3. Harness the growing relevance of sustainability-focused roles: Sustainability-focused roles are here to stay and grow, and organisations must look at hiring sustainability experts as a critical investment. These experts can drive and accelerate the creation of a “green” framework – including defining KRAs to focus on green efforts. For instance, a Carbon Accountant can help drive transformation that unlocks growth.

At Salesforce, we have a Chief Impact Officer who is the global leader overseeing all our impact efforts, including sustainability. Additionally, all Salesforce senior leaders have ESG (that’s Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals integrated into their annual planning. The idea is to have talent aligned to sustainability at all levels.

Seizing the Talent Alignment Opportunity

A sustainable future calls for organisations to enhance employees’ skill sets, transform mindsets, and provide the right environment. This is key to ensuring that employees are not just equipped to make an impact, but inspired and empowered to unlock long-term growth.

At Salesforce, we’re working toward a more sustainable future — helping to build and inspire the communities around us. Our Trailblazer community in India is committed to the cause; will you join us?