Social Inequality: How Business Leaders Can Tackle It

It’s well known that social inequality is one of the greatest challenges of our life time. But there is a great opportunity to address this problem in the business community — especially by those in the most senior positions.

Inequality may mean economic disparity, or it simply means that those in lower income brackets have fewer opportunities. One of the clearest examples of inequality can be witnessed in a phenomenon known as a “poverty premium.” Essentially, this means that those on the lowest incomes in society face higher prices for housing, insurance, and other services.

In this piece we explore the social inequality problem, the role business leaders can play in tackling it, and what those same leaders need to make that change a reality.

Understanding the Poverty Premium

The poverty premium is an extra cost that millions around the world face, simply for being lower income. So why does this happen?

Lower-income individuals usually have more limited access to banking options and credit, leading them to rely on alternative financial products like high-interest payday loans and check-cashing services, which can come loaded with exorbitant fees.

The cost of housing is another major contributor to the poverty premium. People on lower incomes can be forced to live in substandard housing with higher utility bills and/or live in areas with poorer access to affordable groceries, for example.

Poorer areas are also typically further from main business districts and areas of work. Lower income means less money to spend on transportation so poorer people rely more on older and less reliable vehicles that are prone to breaking down. As a result, they can often be forced to pay more in maintenance costs.

Insurance is another area where the poverty premium can be witnessed. The poorer a person is, the higher their insurance premiums can be for certain types of insurance. For example people, research has shown that people in less prosperous regions may be charged significantly more for contents insurance.

The Role of Business Leaders

Business leaders can play an important role in addressing the poverty premium and broader issues of social inequality. These leaders are uniquely positioned to drive change.

Business leaders can champion initiatives that promote financial inclusion.

This may include partnering with community organisations to boost affordable banking options and supporting the fight for more equitable lending. They are also capable of collaborating with local governments and nonprofits and investing in affordable housing projects.

The promotion of equitable hiring practices is another key step. These leaders can set an example by implementing inclusive hiring practices that provide opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Empowering Business Leaders for Change

To effectively tackle social inequality, business leaders need empowerment on multiple fronts:

•     Education and awareness: Empowerment begins with education and awareness. An understanding of the issues that create inequality and who is affected is the first step to positive change,
•     Collaborative networks: Developing relationships is key. Collaboration amplifies the impact of initiatives so building partnerships with nonprofits and similar bodies is crucial as collaboration to amplify initiatives.
•     Leadership training: Leadership training programs that emphasise diversity and inclusion can be implemented at a C-suite level.
•     Policy advocacy: This can include supporting legislation that promotes access to essential services for people of all backgrounds and income levels. Advocacy efforts can be aimed at influencing policies that combat social inequality.
•     Implement measurable goals: What do business leaders need to measure success? Measurable goals. Business leaders should establish project goals that are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.

Taking the first step

Tackling social inequality, including the poverty premium, is a complex challenge that demands a collective effort from society and business leaders, in particular. They have a powerful role to play, using their influence and resources to drive positive change.

To empower business leaders for this crucial task, education, collaboration and measurable goals are essential to success. Ultimately, addressing social inequality is not just a moral imperative but a strategic move that benefits both businesses and the communities they serve.