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Step 1
Determine your financial goals and consider SRI within the framework of your overall financial plan. Identify your most important social concern and research companies that fit your investment criteria.
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Step 2
Decide what financial risk and return your investments can accept and compare this to the potential social return. Finally, select investments that best meet both your financial and social goals. The longer your investing horizon, the more risk you can assume.
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Step 3
Build a socially responsible portfolio researching your investment decisions carefully. The Green Culture website includes books and guides to SRI. The Social Investment Forum, a nonprofit organization that promotes SRI, also provides extensive information that may help you get started. See Resources belwo.
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Step 4
Investment clubs are an excellent way to learn about socially responsible investing. According to the National Association of Investors Corporation (NAIC), most investment club members eventually start their own individual portfolios armed with the knowledge gained through their club involvement.
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Step 5
If you think a SRI strategy fits your financial objectives, consider working with a knowledgeable financial advisor to get professional advice about possible investment opportunities. The adviser can help you make sure your current investments fit with screening standards for choosing SRIs and brainstorm with you on options for future investments
