[INFOGRAPHIC] Does Your Brand Have a Social Purpose? Here's Why It Should

Is your brand just a brand? You might think there’s nothing wrong with being all about commerce for commerce’s sake, and of course in some ways you’re right—but as this infographic shows, aligning yourself with a bigger social cause can be a smart step in building a stronger fan base.

According to social impact studies, 90 percent of consumers are more likely to display loyalty to a brand that takes active steps to make a social difference. But there’s an important key here that can’t be missed: consumers can see right through a shallow social campaign adopted just to pander to consumer interests. Engaging in “causewashing” can actually do more damage than good to your brand.

So if you’re going to get involved in a charity or social cause, make sure you do it right and for the right reasons, taking on a cause that makes sense with your brand and that you truly believe in. By doing it right, you might find that consumers will stand behind you as well.

Check out the Column Five infographic for more stats and information:

[SOURCE: Column Five via Mashable]