Follow-up action
Once you have used the Global Compact Self Assessment Tool, you have probably identified a number of areas for improvement or further attention. This is when the real work starts! Here are a few things to consider:
Prioritise the areas for improvement Maybe you found room for improvement on a range of issues and you probably can't do everything at once. Try to decide which issues are the most important for your company. Given the nature and location of your activities, what issues are most likely to affect you within the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption? Agree on improvement actions Once you have prioritised the issues, it's time to agree on the improvement actions you want to take - and who should be responsible. Perhaps you already know. Make sure everyone involved understands the issues and is ready to take ownership of the actions. Track progress Some issues can be dealt with quickly, but most improvements require a sustained effort. Once you have agreed on the relevant improvement actions, you may want to agree on key performance indicators that should be monitored and reported internally to ensure progress. To support continuous improvement, you may want to repeat the self-assessment at regular intervals. Communicate with stakeholders The Global Compact Self Assessment Tool can support you in communicating progress and key initiatives to your stakeholders. By using the questions and indicators as a basis for communicating on progress you can be transparent and precise in your stakeholder communication. If you have signed the UN Global Compact, the Self Assessment questions and indicators will provide inspiration for your annual “Communication on Progress” (COP). The tool is aligned with the Global Compact Advance level reporting criteria, which are in turn aligned with the UNGC Management Model and the Blueprint for Corporate Sustainability Leadership. Seek inspiration Using the Global Compact Self Assessment Tool you are likely to come across issues that pose tough dilemmas for any company. You may need to seek inspiration and advice from experts, authorities or other businesses. The UN Global Compact and its local networks may be a good place to start. Share experience The UN Global Compact is a world-wide platform for learning and sharing of experiences on sustainable business. Please share your experience using the Global Compact Self Assessment Tool!
