Is it possible to implement corporate purpose in such a way that it achieves multi-stakeholder impact and high financial growth? To answer this question, the authors studied 12 companies that were employing various industry-specific strategies and found that those that successfully achieved the dual goals of purpose and profit did so by adopting what they call an “advocacy-based business model.
Purpose-driven strategies focus on relationships with multiple stakeholders and seek to solve higher-order problems for society. To be successful, these strategies also have to achieve top- and bottom-line growth. The question is: How can companies achieve both of these goals?Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Sharpening Your Business Acumen.