Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) Degree Practice Exam

Which method can a local community employ to influence a company's decisions?

1. Publicizing an issue

2. Offering financial incentives

3. Ignoring the problem

4. Reducing public feedback

The correct answer is: Publicizing an issue

Publicizing an issue is an effective method for a local community to influence a company's decisions because it raises awareness and generates public discourse around the concerns of the community. By bringing attention to specific problems, such as environmental impacts, labor practices, or even corporate social responsibility, the community can create pressure on the company to address these issues. This increased visibility can lead to changes in company policies or practices as businesses often respond to public sentiment and the potential impact on their reputation and customer loyalty. Highlighting an issue can involve various forms of communication, such as social media campaigns, local news coverage, community meetings, and petitions, which collectively serve to inform and mobilize community members. When a significant number of individuals express concern and demand action, companies may be more likely to consider adjustments to their operations or engagement strategies to align with public expectations and values. On the other hand, offering financial incentives, ignoring the problem, or reducing public feedback are strategies that may not effectively address community concerns or create the necessary dialogue to facilitate change. In fact, ignoring problems or limiting public feedback could lead to further disengagement and resentment from the community, ultimately hindering any chance of productive communication or cooperation between the community and the company.