5 Tips to Improve Employee Engagement

When you hear Employee Engagement, what do you think of? You may say it’s fluff and getting a paycheck should be all the engagement anyone needs. We get it. But, think about it like this, employees want to know their hard work has meaning and that their presence adds value to the company. It’s essential for every business to connect their people to their mission. Feel free to replace mission with the company “why”. Many studies have shown that engaged employees are committed to the company goals, will go above and beyond, are less likely to take time-off, and are very likely to have innovative ideas. That sounds pretty awesome!

Here are 5 tips to help improve employee engagement:

• Starting at the Top: Senior leaders must demonstrate support for an engaged company culture by personally living their company’s values. Leading begins by walking the walk, not just talking the talk. Also, being thanked and recognized by top leaders makes all the difference.

• Front-line Leaders: Have you ever heard the old saying “Employees don’t quit jobs, they quit bosses?” It’s true. Therefore, take care of the front-line leaders that take care of the front-line employees. Every employee in the organization has a need for value and purpose. That includes leaders, individual contributors, staff, etc.

• Feedback and Communications: A communication plan built on consistency and transparency cannot be underestimated. Extending that communication to gain feedback by asking what employees think, or using employee engagement surveys, can make a world of difference. Be sure there is a complaint reporting process and a feedback forum outlined in your Employee Handbook.

• Motivational Culture: First, find out the personality type of your employees. Utilize a personality assessment to understand what your employees care about and how are they motivated. Getting to know your team and leveraging their interest will create a motivational culture.

• Progress: We all want to be with a successful organization. All employees also like to be “in the know.” Communicating goals and progress will help employees to “keep their eyes on the ball”. Telling employees where they fit in, conducting constructive performance reviews, and what to look forward to within the company goes a long way.

It’s hard to play a game and you never know the score. Be sure to share clear expectations with employees, help them understand what’s excellent performance and also how it will impact the company. Need more ideas? Contact one of our HR professionals today!