Beyond.com recently polled business professionals throughout its network of more than 15,000 sites to gauge how important it is for professionals to find an environmentally-friendly workplace for their next job.

More than 5,500 Beyond.com Network visitors responded to the recent poll question:

“How important is finding an environmentally-aware workplace for your next job?”

• 16% - required for my next job
• 19% - a deciding factor between two similar jobs
• 44% - nice to have, but not a real deciding factor
• 21% - not something I am actively looking for

The results of Beyond.com’s poll indicate having an environmentally-friendly workplace is becoming more than just a trend. Companies that make the decision to invest time, money and resources to “go green” are not only helping the earth, but are also attracting a number of potential employees who consider a green workplace a requirement or deciding factor for their next job. With so many companies jumping on the bandwagon to go green, sites such as Carbonrally.com can provide a convenient way to kick start a corporate or personal program.

Below are some helpful tips on how businesses can create an environmentally-friendly workplace and motivate employees to participate in company-sponsored “green” initiatives:

• Get Employees Excited – Create an internal “green team” to help develop and promote environmentally-friendly initiatives throughout the company.
• Promote Recycling – Place recycle bins in high-traffic areas, such as copy or lunch rooms, to promote recycling of paper, plastics, bottles and cans.
• Save Energy – Optimize energy settings on all company computers, and encourage employees to turn off their computers and office lights when they leave work.
• Encourage Carpooling – Encourage employees to take alternative methods of transportation (public transportation, bike riding) or organize an internal carpool. Employers can also invest in technology that enables their employees to telecommute.
• Track and Promote Company Progress – Track new initiatives and join an association or online community that generates new ideas and provides ways to measure green efforts. Promote your eco-friendly initiatives on your website, in collateral and when posting your next job.