It’s proven that most employers fail to keep their employees engaged. Sadly, only 13% of employees worldwide feel engaged at work according to a 2013 study.
What is engagement and why does engagement matter? To engage is to occupy, attract, or involve someone’s interest or attention. When employees are engaged with the company they work for, they are actively fulfilling the company’s mission and advocating for the business. Engaged employees create value and ultimately make the company more effective.
1. Give Feedback.
It is important to give feedback to employees regularly. When you take the time to sit down with an employee to set goals and discuss outcomes, they will feel more appreciated. Similarly, studies have shown that an employee is 30x more likely to be engaged when a manager focuses on their strengths.
2. Seek Feedback.
It is important for employers to seek feedback from their employees (in person or via a survey). When you ask for feedback and make changes as a result, employees will feel that they are being heard and making a difference in the company.
3. Discuss Impact.
Studies have shown that employees aren’t really motivated by rewards or financial success. What really makes a difference in the quality of their work is what impact they feel they are making. When you are giving feedback or discussing company outcomes, discuss how the company is making a difference in the community and how it is a result of the employees’ hard work.
4. Healthy Competition.
A little fun healthy competition is always good for company morale. Whether it be a sales competition or a fun rendition of Office Olympics, it is important to encourage office camaraderie.
5. Offer Training.
It is important to be willing to allow and pay for employees to engage in training that is relevant to their professional development and will help them exceed in their role.
6. Encourage Experimentation.
Include your employees in the decision-making process. If there is a problem that needs to be solved, hold a brainstorming session and encourage employees to share their ideas, no matter how wacky they may be. It is ok to make mistakes and it is important for employees to learn and realize how to change things.
6. Spend a Day in Their Shoes.
Implement a job-swap program or have management spend a day shadowing a subordinate and vice versa. More often than not, this can lead to an improvement in a business process.
7. Create a Happy Place.
Is the office a mess? Dull? Try some office Feng Shui. When the business environment is warm, inviting and organized, it is going to make working more pleasant. Beyond that, studies have shown it is easier to focus in a well designed office. Even the color of paint on the wall can effect our level of work.
