Newswise — Zhejia Ling, assistant accounting professor at Cal State Fullerton, based on her research, believes that a company CEO who is involved in pro-social responsibility has a greater chance of making beneficial corporate decisions and being better leaders. 

A prosocial person is someone who is concerned about the well-being of others. In an upcoming study that will appear in the Review of Accounting Studies, Ling discovered that executives engaging in “prosocial” behavior – that is, supporting philanthropic organizations or similar activities that help others – are more likely to make corporate decisions that benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including employees, customers and the society and increase corporate value. Because a prosocial CEO has a positive effect on a range of stakeholders, this type of leadership can uplift and guide the organization effectively.  

Ling Said: “Prosocial CEOs make decisions that have positive impacts on different aspects of the company, which include decreased employee turnover, higher customer satisfaction and more socially responsible activities.”

“It is part of who a person is. It is an innate personality trait developed as early as childhood and built over time.”

Read more about Ling and her research.

About Cal State Fullerton: The largest university in the CSU and the only campus in Orange County, Cal State Fullerton offers 110 degree programs and Division 1 athletics. Recognized as a national model for supporting student success, CSUF excels with innovative, high-impact educational practices, including faculty-student collaborative research, study abroad and competitive internships. Our vibrant and diverse campus is a primary driver of workforce and economic development in the region. CSUF is a top public university known for its success in supporting first-generation and underrepresented students, and preparing all students to become leaders in the global marketplace. Our It Takes a Titan campaign, a five-year $250 million comprehensive fundraising initiative, prioritizes investments in academic innovation, student empowerment, campus transformation and community enrichment. Visit fullerton.edu.

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