It’s been clear for some time that the business of business – contrary to legendary economist Milton Friedman – isn’t simply business. Corporate responsibility has gone mainstream. But new research from Zeno Group reveals how, in Asia Pacific, corporate and brand purpose has become a clear and indisputable driver of tangible business success and commercial returns. 

Nearly one year ago, the killing of George Floyd and other Black Americans cast a spotlight on the urgent need for business and others to do better – much better – to combat racism and advance racial diversity, equity and inclusion.  

Once relegated exclusively to whispers in the hallway far away from the boss, mental health has become one of the most pressing issues for CEOs and their leaders to address, as broader movements to bring such conversations to the mainstream have grown. 

It’s undoubtedly one of the most asked questions from our clients this last year: “How do we do TikTok?” Traditional ads and scripted influencer content have flopped on the platform, while the likes of acne patches and Kesha content prosper. 

For public relations, 2020 was all about the pandemic and implacable reality of a life-threatening disease, mass lockdowns and economic turmoil. With economies beginning to show signs of new life and even a possible boom, it’s time to rethink our role as communicators.

Zeno surveyed more than 1,000 young Americans aged 14-28 who are simultaneously disrupting the world by driving change in a broken system while crying out for help with their own besieged, disrupted lives.  We call them “Generation Disrupted.”  In this time of monumental uncertainty, the public and private sectors must understand the new values, hopes and fears of this disproportionately powerful group of practical problem solvers who will take us into the future.